If you’re taking care of a senior parent that is living alone, you probably spend a lot of time making sure that their physical health is good. But what about their mental health? Loneliness is something that many seniors living at home experience, and the consequences of loneliness can be devasting for seniors.

Companion care at home for senior is a fantastic way to safeguard your mom or dad’s mental health. If your mom or dad has companion care at home they will get regular visits from a companion caregiver who can share meals and conversations with them, do activities and play games with them, and make sure they get the socialization they need.
Some interesting facts that you should know about loneliness in seniors and how it can impact their health include:

Loneliness Increases Depression

Seniors who are lonely are more likely to experience depression. Research shows that about 43% of older adults feel lonely on a regular basis. This can lead to sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in life.

Loneliness Raises Anxiety Levels

Feeling isolated can cause anxiety in seniors. This constant worry can make it hard for them to relax or sleep well. Studies have found that lonely people are at a higher risk for anxiety disorders.

Loneliness Causes Cognitive Decline

Lonely seniors may experience memory loss and cognitive decline. Social interactions help keep the brain active. Seniors who are isolated have a 50% higher risk of developing dementia.

Loneliness Leads to Weaker Immune Systems

Loneliness weakens the immune system. It can cause your parent’s body to produce more stress hormones, which makes it harder to fight off illnesses. This means they may get sick more often.

Loneliness Contributes to Heart Disease

Social isolation increases the risk of heart disease. Lonely seniors are more likely to have high blood pressure, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes.

Loneliness Shortens Life Expectancy

Loneliness can even shorten your senior parent’s life. Research shows that chronic loneliness can increase the risk of early death by 26%. Companion care at home can help improve your mom or dad’s chances of living longer.

Loneliness is Common Among Seniors

Many seniors face loneliness. One study showed that 1 in 4 adults aged 65 and older are socially isolated. This is especially true for those aging in place without regular visitors. That’s why companion care at home is essential for seniors living at home.

Loneliness Increases the Risk of Depression

Lonely seniors are more likely to develop major depression. This mental health issue can cause long-lasting sadness and a lack of motivation to stay healthy.

Loneliness Can Cause Physical Pain

Feeling lonely can also increase feelings of physical pain. Research shows that loneliness can intensify the body’s response to pain, making chronic conditions like arthritis feel worse.

Loneliness Affects Mobility

Loneliness can impact how active your parent is. Without social encouragement, they may stop exercising or going outside. This can cause muscle weakness, poor balance, and even falls.

Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7437541/
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/newsroom/news-releases/2023/01/new-studies-suggest-social-isolation-is-a-risk-factor-for-dementia-in-older-adults-point-to-ways-to-reduce-risk
https://www.campaigntoendloneliness.org/facts-and-statistics/

If you or an aging loved one is considering companion care at home in Minneapolis, MN and the surrounding areas, please contact the friendly staff at CareBuilders at Home Minnesota. Call today 612-260-2273.