Understanding Loneliness in Seniors
Loneliness significantly affects seniors’ mental and physical health. Two recent studies highlight this issue. One study in China involving 15,500 older adults found that loneliness affects health differently based on gender and other factors. The findings showed that loneliness can lead to psychological distress and emotional isolation. Women in particular had lower life expectancy and quality of life due to loneliness (BMC Public Health, 2024).
Another study from Ireland examined personal experiences of loneliness across a lifetime. It identified three types of loneliness: chronic loneliness from childhood, chronic loneliness after midlife changes, and situational loneliness. This study emphasised the need to address loneliness early to prevent long-term effects (Mental Health Services, 2024).
The Power of Friendships
Friendships provide essential social support for seniors. Studies have shown that having friends lowers levels of depression and psychological distress in older adults (Potts, 1997; Taylor et al., 2018). Increasing the number of friends is associated with reduced stress and better emotional balance (Van der Horst & Coffé, 2012). Friendships in older adults are more strongly linked to psychological well-being than family relationships (Montpetit et al., 2017).
Benefits of Friendships for Seniors
Friendships help seniors face stressful events. They provide emotional support and reduce feelings of isolation. This social support is vital for maintaining mental health and overall well-being. Seniors with friends experience less depression and more positive emotions. These relationships can also contribute to a longer, healthier life.
Support for Caregivers
Caregivers play a crucial role in helping seniors combat loneliness. Social organisations like CareConnect and SG Assist offer valuable support. CareConnect provides tech-enabled solutions for seniors, while SG Assist, a free app, connects volunteers with seniors needing assistance. These services help caregivers by offering practical support, such as fetching groceries or accompanying seniors to medical appointments.
Conclusion
Friendships are essential for seniors’ mental and physical health. They provide emotional support, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. Caregivers can help seniors build and maintain friendships, and social organisations offer valuable support. By addressing loneliness, we can improve the quality of life for our seniors.
At SG Assist and CareConnect, we believe that every act of kindness counts. Whether you’re a caregiver in need of support or a volunteer looking to make a difference, we’re here for you. Visit SG Assist and CareConnect’s website to learn more about our services, download the SG Assist app or sign up as a volunteer for our Caregiver Resource Centre, and together, let’s create a community of care and support. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter here for updates on how you can help.
