Unless you have a parent who is over 65, are an older adult yourself or are in contact with seniors on a frequent basis, you may not know about the different types of issues that older adults face. One ongoing issue which has worsened since social distancing became the norm, is social isolation. A lack of social interaction affects many older adults, but seems to be more prevalent among those who live on their own. Approximately 20% of adults over 65 who live independently in their communities were considered to be socially isolated, and 43% of adults over 60 reported experiencing feelings of loneliness. 

The repercussions of these two factors are very serious on their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing, and go beyond older adults just ‘feeling gloomy’. Social isolation and loneliness can lead to depression, anxiety, and can increase the risk of a stroke, heart disease, systemic inflammation, and dementia. 

A 2012 study from University of California San Francisco’s associate chief for Geriatrics Clinical Programs, Carla Perissinotto, MD, found that older adults who are lonely have a 59% increased risk of losing their independence and a 45% increased risk of death. Dr. Perissinotto believes that among the steps that have to be made to improve this serious problem is to improve awareness of loneliness as a public health crisis as well as assessments, prevention strategies, and interventions to combat it.

Social isolation by seniors has worsened severely due to the social distancing measures that have been put in place to avoid the spread of the disease. Older adults have been hit hardest by this epidemic, as they account for a whopping 80% of COVID fatalities. Although social distancing is helping to stop the spread of the disease, it has negatively impacted those who are most vulnerable to social isolation and loneliness, worsening their depression and anxiety while elevating their risks for other diseases. 

WHAT WE’RE DOING ABOUT SENIOR ISOLATION

In response to the limitations set forth by social distancing, we have recently launched a new initiative, which directly combats isolation felt by older adults, without exposing them to in-person visits. The service is called Friendly Phone Calls and gives us the opportunity to take care of seniors, even when no one is physically visiting them. Older adults benefit by having human contact throughout the week via phone calls throughout the week with a DSCC volunteer. It allows them to share stories, get to know the volunteer and talk about whatever they want. These conversations not only fight the isolation they feel, but also allows them to stimulate their minds and lift their spirits. 

If you’re not familiar with the DuPage Senior Citizens Council, we offer multiple services aimed to provide assistance to older adults who live on their own (independent and home-bound). The services include well-being checks, friendly-visits, minor home repairs, yard cleanup, Meals on Wheels, education, pet care, community dining and more. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, many of these services have been put on hold, or in the case of Meals for Wheels, modified to doorstep drop off. 

HELP US CONNECT WITH OLDER ADULTS

During these very tough times, many people are looking for ways to help others. Friendly Phone Calls offers a gratifying opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of people who are suffering and could greatly benefit from hearing a friendly voice. If you want to help, then consider becoming a volunteer. Volunteering is easy and convenient, as many volunteers call seniors on their morning commute or lunch break.

To learn more about becoming a Friendly Phone Call volunteer, click here.

Sources:

https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/13/health/coronavirus-elderly-isolation-loneliness.html

https://www.nationalacademies.org/our-work/the-health-and-medical-dimensions-of-social-isolation-and-loneliness-in-older-adults

https://www.medpagetoday.com/infectiousdisease/covid19/87049

https://news.gallup.com/poll/151457/seniors-maintain-happiness-highs-less-social-time.aspx

Social Isolation & loneliness among Older Americans during COVID-19 Evidence, Policy & Candidacy PDF (www.endisolation.org)

https://www.acsh.org/news/2020/06/23/coronavirus-covid-deaths-us-age-race-14863