If your senior parent is living independently, one of the biggest health risks they are facing may be one you’re not even aware of—loneliness. Research shows that seniors who live alone have a high risk of becoming lonely, especially if they are not able to go out on their own easily.

Loneliness can increase the risk of serious physical and mental problems for seniors, including raising their risk of having a heart attack or a stroke. Companion care at home services is a great option for seniors who are living alone.

If your senior mom or dad has companion care at home, they will get regular visits from a friend they can talk with, share meals with, and hang out with. Having companion care at home can lower the risk of your mom or dad becoming lonely at home.

Some facts that you should know about loneliness and seniors living alone are:

 

It’s Very Common

A significant number of seniors experience loneliness. Studies suggest that about 20-30% of older adults report feeling lonely frequently. And the actual number of seniors who are suffering from loneliness is probably much higher. Seniors often underreport feeling lonely because they think it’s just a normal part of aging.

 

It Increases The Risk Of Depression

Loneliness is strongly linked to depression in seniors, with isolated seniors being at a higher risk of developing depressive symptoms. Getting companion care at home for your senior parent can lower their risk of becoming depressed and developing anxiety.

 

It Can Make Cognitive Decline Worse

Chronic loneliness is associated with faster cognitive decline and an increased risk of conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. If your senior parent is living independently and worried about dementia or cognitive decline, getting companion care at home is a great way to keep their cognitive skills strong.

 

It Leads To Poor Cardiovascular Health

Loneliness can negatively impact cardiovascular health, increasing the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. If your senior mom or dad has high blood pressure or heart disease, becoming lonely could make their conditions worse.

 

It Can Cause A Weakened Immune System

Social isolation and loneliness can weaken the immune system, making seniors more susceptible to infections and illnesses.

 

It Causes Higher Mortality Rates

Studies have found that loneliness can lead to higher mortality rates. Lonely seniors are more likely to die prematurely compared to those who have strong social connections. If your senior parent wants to continue living alone, companion care at home can help them avoid loneliness while they stay independent.

 

Poor Sleep Quality Is Common In Lonely Seniors

Loneliness can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to poor sleep quality and insomnia, which can make existing sleeping problems worse or cause seniors to struggle with restlessness and insomnia.

 

It Contributes To Malnutrition and Poor Eating Habits

Lonely seniors may experience changes in appetite and eating habits, which can lead to malnutrition or poor dietary choices that affect their health.

 

Physical Inactivity

Social isolation often leads to a sedentary lifestyle, which can contribute to various health problems such as obesity, diabetes, and decreased mobility.

 

 

If you or an aging loved one is considering Companion Care at Home in Hollywood, CA, please contact the caring staff at Nu Care Inc. today at. 800-505-6890