The drive to allow more elderly people to be cared for at home could leave them isolated
The vast majority of people want to remain at home. It is important that we meet their basic care needs, but that is not the end of it.

The care and support among individuals in a community is essential for everyone. Due to different reasons, some elders may become socially isolated. Studies show that prolonged social isolation will result in a lack of support both physically and mentally. This may include exaggerated reactions to physical illnesses or pain, or a decrease in the ability to adapt to changes in life. In the severe case, the elder becomes depressed, and may even have suicidal ideation or behavior. What are the factors that predispose to social isolation?

If people feel isolated at home, it is not good. Theirs is a broader agenda that now needs to be addressed. In homes, there is often a sense of community, but that is not always the case if people do not receive the right support at home. Many seniors depend upon neighbors, friends or family to fill the gaps.

 But as much as some seniors have this type of support, there is still to much time spent alone. I have found that seniors who are living alone and as care needs become greater the lack of social interaction, impacts all areas of their lives. From skipping meals, to not bathing, or not even bothering to dress daily. Adult children need to know that to rely on neighbors to check in on Mom/Dad is not enough. Not one size fits all when trying to determine what is the best for your parent. A lot depends on their medical issues, their past life experiences, what type of personality they have. Just because we grow older does not mean our personality changes. As is the video from DR Keith Golay Ph.D. states no two persons react to ageing the same way.

As a result of these factors, they may be particularly vulnerable in times of illness or if they experience a personal crisis, such as the death of a spouse.

Here are three elements that have been identified as basic to diminishing feelings of loneliness.