Royce Shook

6 years ago · 2 min. reading time · ~10 ·

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One is the loneliest number

One is the loneliest number

Looking at the characteristics of who is or isn’t lonely, some key similarities and differences are worth noting:

Risk factors for loneliness include:


The more risk factors present, the greater the odds of being lonely

What can you do to prevent or alleviate loneliness?

Loneliness is not a normal part of the ageing process — but many of the challenges inherent in ageing put the older adult population at risk. In a new report (pdf file), developed with AARP Foundation support, researchers examined the best existing data to estimate the prevalence of loneliness among adults (age 62-91) in the U.S. The study identifies the characteristics of lonely older adults as well as segments of the older adult population who are at high risk for loneliness. Although related, loneliness and isolation are not the same things. More than half of older adults (52%)in the United States experience some degree of loneliness

Loneliness (also known as subjective isolation) denotes how people perceive their experience and whether or not they feel isolated.

Objective isolation involves quantifiable measurements, such as the size of one’s social network (and the frequency of engagement with it), availability of transportation, and ability to access resources and information. The scope of this study was specific to loneliness

Education: Education levels don’t differ between lonely and non-lonely individuals.

Work/Retirement: Lonely and non-lonely older adults are equally likely to be retired, working or unemployed.

Caregiving: Lonely and non-lonely groups are equally likely to be providing care for a dependent.

Marital Status: The lonely group is less likely to be married than the non-lonely group, but both married (14%) and unmarried (30%) individuals can be lonely.

Income: Lonely older adults have lower household income and less wealth.

Living Alone: Lonely people are more likely to live alone, in large part because they are less likely to be married.

Health: Although there is no significant difference in number and severity of chronic health conditions between the two groups, lonely people rate their health less positively.

Physical Limitations: Lonely older adults have more physical limitations in carrying out the activities of daily living (e.g., dressing, bathing and feeding oneself).

Social Interaction: Lonely older adults socialize, volunteer, attend religious services and participate in organized groups less frequently than non-lonely adults.

  • Not being married
  • Having three or fewer friends
  • Socializing less than once a week
  • Experiencing considerable strain in family relationships

Stay or get socially active. Weekly or more frequent group participation, attendance at religious services, volunteering, and socializing with friends may help prevent and reduce loneliness. The less frequently people see each other, the weaker the connections become and the less supportive the relationships are.

Nurture relationships. Every relationship has its good and bad sides. The goal is to capitalize on the positive side and minimize the negative side. Reducing strain in family relationships is particularly important because these relationships are often the ones we turn to in times of need.

Find and take advantage of local resources. The ability to socialize can be hampered by poor access, other obligations, and even the inability to prepare one’s home for visitors. Explore transportation options, caregiver respite, or opportunities to get involved with activities and meet new people. Libraries, senior centres, community centres and other organizations offer a range of classes and groups, from computer training to art classes to support groups and much more.



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Comments

Joel Anderson

6 years ago #5

Thank you for some great insights. Joel

Royce Shook

6 years ago #4

Thank you all for your thoughtful responses. In a workshop, I do on social connectedness we define social isolation is: less social contact than someone wishes, causing loneliness or other emotional distress. In Canada, the research shows that 6% of seniors do not have any friends, which leads to social isolation, and loneliness. There are many of us who, although alone are never lonely, as Franci and Ken said. I find myself, at times in Ian's situation looking for time alone so I can rest and recharge my battery. We all have a need to belong no matter what age we are at, and as we age, seniors lose members of their social circle and withdraw from their community. In BC only 67% of seniors feel a connection to their community. I am not sure about other areas but I think the percentages would not be that different. I believe that unless we take steps to try and change this situation, more and more seniors will experience isolation and loneliness which leads to health and care problems.

Ian Weinberg

6 years ago #3

A very relevant and well written article Royce Shook In my professional situation I am consulted by in excess of 200 people per month. I therefore find myself seeking 'alone-ness' to pursue own quality time, sans human engagement.

Ken Boddie

6 years ago #2

I cherish being alone, Royce, but am seldom lonely. For me the key to avoiding loneliness is maintaining an enquiring mind and objective focus, while carefully choosing from whom we learn, and avoiding being overwhelmed by too much vacuous interaction.

Milos Djukic

6 years ago #1

Great article Royce Shook. A must read. Thanks and cheers.

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