At Salyx, we care deeply about the well-being of aging loved ones, both yours and ours. Lately, we’ve been paying closer attention to how often some seniors are alone and what that solitude might mean for their mental and emotional health. It’s heartbreaking to realize that many older adults, including those closest to us, may feel isolated or disconnected from the world around them. According to the World Health Organization (2021), in some regions, up to one-third of seniors report feeling lonely. That’s a number we can’t ignore, and it’s one of the reasons we’re committed to being part of the solution.
Understanding the Difference: Isolation vs. Loneliness
Although they are similar, being alone and feeling alone aren't always the same thing.
- Social isolation is more about not having enough contact with others—few relationships, limited interaction, and a lack of meaningful roles in daily life (Government of Canada, 2022).
- Loneliness, on the other hand, is a personal feeling. It's the emotional pain that comes when there's a gap between the social connection someone wants and what they actually have (National Institute on Aging, 2023).
It’s entirely possible for someone to be surrounded by others and still feel deeply lonely. Loneliness isn’t just about being alone; it’s about feeling unseen, unheard, or disconnected, even in the presence of others.
Why It Matters: The Health Risks Are Real
Learning about the impact of social isolation and loneliness on health helps to understand that it’s not just an emotional issue; it can seriously affect physical and mental well-being. Seniors who are isolated or feel alone face a higher risk of:
- High blood pressure and heart disease
- Weakened immune system
- Anxiety and depression
- Cognitive decline, including dementia
- More frequent ER visits or needing long-term care
- Even earlier death (National Institute on Aging, 2023)
Is My Loved One at Risk? Here’s What You Might Notice
- They live alone or have lost a spouse
- Mobility, hearing, or vision problems limit their activity
- They’ve stopped going out as much or seeing friends
- They seem down or less talkative
- They live far from family or in a hard-to-reach area
- They struggle with English or face discrimination
- They just don’t seem to have a reason to get up and go anymore
.
What to do to Help?
Thankfully, there are many ways we can help our loved ones feel more connected and supported.
Here are a few key factors that can make a big difference (Government of Canada, 2022):
- Supporting their physical and mental health
- Making sure they feel safe at home and in their neighborhood
- Encouraging them to join local activities or social groups
- Helping with access to transportation or services
- Making them feel valued, heard, and part of something bigger
- Helping them connect online or through phone calls
- Building a support system that includes family, friends, and community
Even small changes like weekly calls, shared meals, or rides to a community center can help them feel more connected.
If you're also worried about someone you love, you're not alone. This is a common but often hidden struggle that many families face. Taking the time to reach out, listen, and help can mean the world to someone who feels forgotten or left out.
Together, we can make sure our loved ones feel seen, supported, and never alone.
Where to Turn for Help
There are wonderful organizations that offer support:
In Canada HelpAge Canada 📍 205-1300 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, ON, K1Z 7L2 📞 613-232-0727 | Toll-Free: 1-800-648-1111 🌐 helpagecanada.ca
In the U.S. YMCA 📞 800-872-9622 🌐 www.ymca.net
References
Government of Canada. (2022). Social isolation of seniors: A toolkit for community organizations – Volume 1. Retrieved from[ https://www.canada.ca/...toolkit-vol1.html
World Health Organization. (2021). Reducing social isolation and loneliness among older people. Retrieved from[ https://www.who.int/...older-people
](https://www.who.int/activities/reducing-social-isolation-and-loneliness-among-older-people)
National Institute on Aging. (2023). Loneliness and social isolation — Tips for staying connected. Retrieved from https://www.nia.nih.gov/...staying-connected