The prospect of aging without a spouse alongside to share one’s journey is depressing enough. Add to it the prospect of loneliness and isolation and it’s no wonder so many seniors suffer from depression. Yet it doesn’t have to be that way.
Living alone does not inevitably lead to social isolation, but it is one of the main factors. Social isolation leads to reduced social skills and discomfort around people. It is also a significant risk factor for elder abuse — particularly financial abuse — and can lead to an increased and sometimes irrational fear of crime and theft. Seniors are then even less likely to socialize.
According to Statistics Canada, socially isolated seniors are at a greater risk of negative health behaviours such as drinking, smoking, addictions, being sedentary and not eating well. They have a higher likelihood of falls, and a four to five times greater risk of hospitalization. As well, social isolation is a strong predictor of mortality due to coronary heart disease or stroke. Factor in a disability, and the risks multiply greatly.
The lonely are also more likely to exhibit psychological and cognitive health issues. One in four seniors lives with a mental health problem, such as anxiety, depression or dementia. As if that isn’t going to cost society enough, the socially isolated are far more likely to need long-term care. Of those in Canadian residential care, almost 45 per cent exhibit signs of depression. Worryingly, Canadian men over the age of 80 have the highest suicide rate of all age groups.
Obviously, family and caregivers are in an excellent position to assist, but they, too, are not immune from the risks of social isolation. The more committed and responsible a caregiver is, the more likely they are to forgo their own social relationships and activities. They may feel guilty enjoying themselves and so they continue to immerse themselves in the care of their loved one, to the extreme detriment of their own health and well-being. Caregivers Nova Scotia is an excellent resource.
Popping anti-depressants is neither the only nor the best solution. Research has shown that seniors who are actively involved in social and community activities are far less likely to be lonely, depressed or pessimistic. Being alone is not the same as being lonely: social interaction is the key. That can take the form of volunteering or getting involved in a hobby or interest.
Seniors who volunteer benefit from an increased sense of satisfaction and efficacy, and the community benefits from the services they provide. Animal lovers may want to consider volunteering at a local shelter. Artsy folk may want to check out community theatres (e.g. Theatre Arts Guild) or music festivals, like the Halifax Jazz Festival or the Stan Rogers Folk Festival. For the curious, join me in a class or three at the excellent Seniors College Association of Nova Scotia (www.theSCANS.ca). Or find me at Northwood, which hosts a variety of excellent structured programs and workshops. Most non-profit organizations need board and committee members: check out VolunteerHalifax.ca for the listings, or phone 211 and ask for recommendations.
Comfortable at a computer? If not, take a free course at your local library. But if you are, check out Ancestry.ca, or simply Google the phrase “virtual volunteering Canada”.
Lack of transportation and mobility issues are often quoted as deterrents to becoming more socially involved, but don’t let them be your excuse. Some organizations keep a list of volunteers willing to drive. Fellow volunteers, active seniors, neighbours and retirees in your community are often willing to help. You only have to ask: you might be surprised at their answers.
Social isolation can be the start of the slippery slope to depression. But smart decisions and a dash of determination might just help keep the black dog at bay.
Alex Handyside is a certified professional consultant on aging and a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. He spent the 12 years prior to his retirement as the owner of an award-winning home-care agency. He now writes and consults.