Too Much 'Alone Time' May Be Hazardous to Your Health

May be the stereotype of the lonely senior a reality or perhaps a myth? Research shows that although aging brings with it some life circumstances that raise the odds of loneliness, personal choices will be the important variable.

Investigators have defined several possible scenarios concerning the relationship between loneliness and health. One shows that loneliness is really a cause -- perhaps preceding a decline in mental or physical health insurance and actually adding to problems in both of these areas.

Another options claim that loneliness in seniors increases because of illness.

This could be for many reasons including:

The elderly with health issues are, sometimes, less able (or sometimes less willing) to activate in social activities. People without adequate social support may become less active, both physically and mentally. Having less mobility could also increase the chance of poor nutritional habits to dominate. None of the things keeps a small medical condition small, do they?

So, understanding that isolation and loneliness have the potential to influence medical and well-being of the elderly, what can a residential area (or a person) do?

Keeping in regular connection with older family, others who live nearby is certainly an excellent start. In a mobile society, however, geography often presents a large challenge for families. Community becomes a lot more important.

Local communities and groups know to involve seniors at all degrees of planning - specifically for community events. Along with filling that ever-present 'volunteer void' they are able to also offer valuable perspective about scheduling, the necessity for transportation and affordability of leisure and educational activities. .