Ways to combat social isolation as an older adult

Regardless of one’s age, social isolation can cause loneliness, sadness, and even depression. For older adults, especially those who live alone, isolation’s negative impact on quality of life makes it crucial to find ways to combat it.

If you or your loved one is feeling lonely, the following strategies—focused on older adults but applicable to everyone—may help reduce these feelings.

• Make transportation available

  One of the most common causes of physical isolation among older adults is a lack of reliable and flexible transportation. If this issue applies to you or your loved one, take a look at this article which offers suggestions on potential transportation options.

• Use technology that helps

  Another barrier to social integration for older adults is a lack of technology or technological education. Purchasing and learning to use smartphones, tablets, and computers can open many doors to communication with family, friends, and one’s community, as well as the ability to seek out new opportunities. While the learning curve for such resources can be steep, it can be well worth it. 

• Schedule time with family and friends

  This may sound obvious, but often, the business of everyday life can get in the way of prioritizing family/friend time. It can be helpful to communicate with family that you are feeling lonely, and would like to have a weekly or biweekly meeting of some sort. This might mean a dinner out once a week, a puzzle night, or even just a morning walk. Once it is part of your routine, it can give you something to look forward to. And if family and friends do not live in close enough proximity to have regular visits, it may be worth considering a weekly video chat or phone call.

• Go on dates

  If you are single and would like a companion, it may be a good idea to try out dating. There are tons of ways to date nowadays, whether at speed-dating events, online, or spontaneously in person. Dating can take some perseverance and hard work, so don’t be afraid to put in some significant effort. The effort can be well worth it, whether you make a friend, find a partner, or even simply meet new people and have some great conversations.

• Get involved with your community

  Community engagement is truly one of the best ways to combat social isolation. One can volunteer at a local school, library, community organization, or simply attend local events such as fairs, movie nights, or farmer’s markets. Doing so can not only offer a chance to meet people from many walks of life, but in some cases also offer a strong sense of purpose and motivation to get out of the house.

• Join an interest-based club

  Whether your hobby is painting, reading, sewing, or playing guitar, meeting others who do the same can be a fun way to reduce your isolation. Interest-based clubs are a great way to get social interaction while doing something you enjoy. They can also offer some comfort for those who are uncomfortable meeting new people, as talking while doing an activity can remove some social pressure.

• Take a class

  Although the US focuses most of its educational resources on youth, lifelong learning can be an extremely valuable way to spend your time. It can not only reduce your loneliness, but also keep your brain active, interested, and motivated. Classes are often offered at libraries, local non-profits, and especially at community colleges. This can be a great way to put oneself out there, while also doing something that feels productive and beneficial.

• Join a group exercise class

  Exercise is good for both physical and mental health, and its effects should not be underestimated. It can be a great idea to join a group exercise course, because while you get social interaction, you are also benefiting your physical health! If you or your loved one suffers from a physical ailment or disability that may rule out certain forms of exercise, consider flexible programs, some of which are geared specifically toward seniors.

• Consider the best place to live for social interaction

  Finally, if you or your loved one is considering moving, or is unhappy in their current living situation, it may be worth thinking about places to live that are more conducive to social interaction. Unfortunately, much of the US is built in such a way that promotes isolation, so it often takes active measures to combat this. Potential options for places to move include senior housing associations, senior communities, assisted living facilities, or even age-friendly cities. If you or your loved one lives alone, it can also be great to live with family, get roommates, or a young companion. This daily social interaction, no matter how small, can go a long way.

Ultimately, social isolation is a reality that many of us face, and it can take active measures to combat its effects. Luckily, there are a lot of options out there to help! While it can be difficult to put oneself out there—especially if you or your loved one is introverted and/or shy—it is often well worth the effort to put on a brave face until you are able to feel truly comfortable.

Finally, remember that finding the right people and making meaningful connections can take time – be patient and don’t be afraid to try different options until you find the right one. With some perseverance and grace, it is quite possible to reduce one’s loneliness and increase quality of life.

Note: If you or your loved one suffers from a severe health condition that makes them homebound or otherwise unable to travel independently outside of the home, you may want to consider home-visit programs. More information on such programs can be found here.

— Rachael Alberts