Is it Healthy for Seniors
to be Isolated?

Most everyone is familiar with the concept of “me time.” In its best sense “me time” involves spending time alone to recharge your batteries. Maybe it’s reading a book, going for a walk, taking a bubble bath, or spending time in prayer. Good “me time” is anytime you’re alone with your thoughts and comfortable in a solitary activity.

However, if you or a senior loved one are living alone, too much “me time” can feel more like isolation and less of a positive.

Is it healthy for seniors to be isolated? The scientific literature says “no.” Loneliness and isolation are associated with a greater risk of dementia, depression, cardiovascular disease, anxiety, stroke and premature death. In fact, the danger of living without daily meaningful contact with others is nearly the same as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day. It’s an even greater threat to good health than obesity and being physically inactive.

Loneliness and the health risks associated with isolation are something senior living communities are uniquely suited to solve. Above and beyond a vibrant lifestyle, these kinds of communities offer a refuge from what’s been called an epidemic of loneliness among Americans, especially in the elderly in the following ways:

• Communal Living – Often seniors living alone at home find their neighborhoods have moved on. Neighbors with whom a senior may have socialized for decades have been replaced by young families focused on raising children. Getting together with friends may involve driving long distances or traveling at night which makes meet-ups more difficult. Additionally, the march of time thins the ranks of family and friends who have moved away or passed on.
  
  Senior living communities are specially designed to make sure daily friendly encounters are a few steps away. No driving necessary to meet up at dinner or happy hour with fellow residents of similar interests and life experiences.
  


• Social Activities – Regularly scheduled events inside the community such as concerts, lectures, movie nights, exercise classes, crafting sessions, and book discussion groups give residents a reason and easy way to spend time with others.





• Comforting Routines – Senior living community residents rarely feel at loose ends when they know friends will be waiting at the breakfast table, can look forward to frequent walks around the grounds, or can count on getting together for worship services.
  

In many ways, senior living communities can be a sure cure for loneliness and can help older people live longer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives.

MorningStar Senior Living

If your loved one lives far from family and friends, it could be time to move into a senior living community near their adult children where they’ll have the companionship of fellow seniors and a compassionate service team. At MorningStar Senior Living, a 24/7 team is dedicated to offering care and hospitality services that meet each resident’s social, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs. We offer month to month rent with levels of care if needed. Contact us to schedule a tour.