New Study: For Older Adults, Using the Internet to Communicate Socially, Is Related to Higher Psychological Well-Being and Less Loneliness
This study (Rennoch et al. 2023) focused on the oldest old (those over 80.) Researchers interviewed 1,863 individuals in Germany between the ages of 80 and 102. They compared levels of loneliness and depressive symptoms of onliners using the Internet for social or other purposes to offliners.
The onliners who used the Internet mostly for social purposes was related to a significantly lower level of loneliness and fewer depressive symptoms compared to offliners. These findings suggest that internet use for social purposes may help the oldest old to reduce feelings of loneliness and depressive symptoms.
Why Are the Elderly Lonely?
It is not advancing age itself that causes loneliness. Rather it is increasing likelihood of circumstances such as health problems, functional limitations and separation from loved ones. Internet social communications can be particularly helpful in overcoming these difficulties.
Challenges to helping the elderly feel less lonely using the Internet include limited access to broadband and computers and limited computer literacy.
Which Internet Sites Offer Hope?
The use of technology can help bridge the gap between the elderly and their loved ones. With the increasing use of smartphones, tablets, and computers, it is easier than ever to stay connected with loved ones who live far away. Video chatting platforms like Skype, Zoom, and FaceTime allow seniors to see and speak with their friends and family members in real-time. Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram can also be a great way to stay connected with loved ones and see updates about their lives.
Other studies warn against the use of the Internet that doesn’t facilitate social connections. For example, too much time on sites for shopping or other sites that don’t offer social interaction do not decrease loneliness.
Why Is This Important?
The group of oldest old (80+ years) is growing at a faster pace than the other age groups (Eurostat, 2019) and showing a high prevalence of loneliness (Hawkley et al., 2022) and depression (Sjöberg et al., 2017) with increasing age. In several studies, loneliness and depression were lower in older adults who use information and communication technologies (ICT) such as the internet.
Recommendations
I suggest that loved ones and policy-makers consider ways to increase access to and education about the use of the Internet to increase satisfying social connections in the elderly. For example, assisted living facilities could make broadband available to residents and offer training on email, Facebook and other social media platforms. While not discussed in this study, I suggest one-on-one exploration of the individual’s needs to optimize that client’s social internet experience.
As the prevalence of loneliness and depressive symptoms increases in very old age, the importance of social interactions and networks becomes prominent.
How Else Might I Help the Elderly Feel Less Lonely?
In addition to using the Internet to communicate socially, the following are some non-tech suggestions.
Encourage social interaction
Encouraging the elderly to engage in social activities can help reduce feelings of loneliness. This can involve joining social groups, clubs, and organizations that align with their interests. For example, if they enjoy gardening, they could join a local gardening club or volunteer at a community garden. Encouraging them to attend community events and gatherings is another way to promote social interaction. Family members and caregivers can help the elderly find and attend events in their local area that they may enjoy.
Provide transportation
Limited mobility can make it difficult for the elderly to attend social events or gatherings. Providing transportation can help them participate in social activities and interact with others. Family members, friends, or caregivers can provide transportation to events, or seniors can utilize public transportation services such as buses or trains.
Offer companionship
Offering companionship to the elderly is an excellent way to reduce feelings of loneliness. Family members, friends, or caregivers can spend time with seniors, engage in activities they enjoy, and have meaningful conversations. Simple activities like taking walks, watching movies, or playing games together can provide seniors with companionship and help them feel less lonely.
Provide opportunities for volunteering
Volunteering can provide seniors with a sense of purpose and belonging, and it can also lead to social interaction. Encouraging the elderly to volunteer can help them connect with others and feel less isolated. They can volunteer at a local school, library, hospital, or animal shelter, among other places. Volunteering can also help seniors stay active and engaged in their community.
Address health issues
Health issues can contribute to feelings of loneliness, especially if the elderly have limited mobility or are in pain. Addressing health issues can help seniors feel better physically, which can lead to improved mental health and reduced feelings of loneliness. Family members and caregivers can help seniors manage their health by scheduling doctor appointments, ensuring they take their medications, and assisting with physical therapy or exercise routines.
Connect with religious or spiritual communities
Religious or spiritual communities can provide seniors with a sense of belonging and connectedness. Encouraging the elderly to attend religious services or events can help them connect with others who share similar beliefs and values. Many religious organizations offer programs and services for seniors, such as Bible study groups or community service projects.
Provide access to mental health resources
Loneliness can contribute to depression and anxiety, and it is important to provide access to mental health resources for the elderly. Family members and caregivers can connect seniors with mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors, who can provide support and guidance. There are also online resources available, such as support groups and mental health apps, that can provide seniors with tools and strategies for managing their mental health.
Encourage hobbies and interests
Encouraging seniors to engage in hobbies and interests can help them feel fulfilled and provide opportunities for social interaction. Some examples include hobbies like painting, knitting and singing.
Consider getting a pet
Pets can be a great source of companionship and comfort for the elderly. Studies have shown that owning a pet can reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, and improve overall mental and physical health. Dogs and cats are popular choices, but there are also smaller pets like birds or fish that can provide companionship without requiring as much care.
Seek out support groups
There are many support groups available for seniors who are experiencing loneliness or isolation. These groups provide a safe and supportive environment where seniors can connect with others who are going through similar experiences. Local community centers, churches, and hospitals may offer support groups for seniors, or there are online resources available as well.
Consider moving to a retirement community
Retirement communities offer a variety of social activities and opportunities for seniors to connect with others. These communities may offer fitness classes, social events, and group outings, among other activities. Moving to a retirement community can also provide seniors with access to on-site healthcare and assistance with daily living activities.
Stay connected with loved ones who have passed
The loss of a loved one can be a significant contributing factor to loneliness in the elderly. Encouraging seniors to find ways to stay connected with loved ones who have passed can help provide comfort and reduce feelings of loneliness. This may involve visiting a loved one’s gravesite or creating a memorial in their honor.
Practice gratitude
Focusing on gratitude can help shift the focus away from loneliness and toward positive aspects of life. Encouraging seniors to write down things they are grateful for each day can help improve overall mental health and reduce feelings of loneliness. Family members and caregivers can also practice gratitude with seniors by expressing appreciation and gratitude for their contributions and presence.
Be patient and understanding
Finally, it is important to be patient and understanding with seniors who are experiencing loneliness. It can be challenging to connect with others as we age, and it may take time to find the right strategies and activities to reduce feelings of loneliness. Offering support, encouragement, and understanding can go a long way in helping seniors feel less lonely and more connected with others.
Conclusions
In conclusion, loneliness can be a significant issue for the elderly, but there are many strategies and resources available to help reduce feelings of isolation and increase social interaction. Encouraging social activities, utilizing technology, providing transportation, offering companionship, providing opportunities for volunteering, addressing health issues, connecting with religious or spiritual communities, accessing mental health resources, encouraging hobbies and interests, getting a pet, seeking out support groups, considering a retirement community, staying connected with loved ones who have passed, practicing gratitude, and being patient and understanding are all effective ways to help the elderly feel less lonely. By implementing these strategies, we can help promote healthy aging and improve the overall well-being of seniors in our communities.
References
Rennoch, G., Schlomann, A., & Zank, S. (2023). The Relationship Between Internet Use for Social Purposes, Loneliness, and Depressive Symptoms Among the Oldest Old. Research on Aging, 0(0). https://doi.org/10.1177/01640275221150017.
Additional Resources
- AARP: A nonprofit organization that offers a variety of resources and support for seniors, including information on social connections and isolation.
- ElderTreks: A travel company that specializes in providing adventure travel experiences for seniors.
- Meetup: An online platform that connects people with shared interests and hobbies, including groups specifically for seniors.
- Senior Corps: A government-sponsored program that connects seniors with volunteer opportunities in their communities.
- The National Council on Aging: A nonprofit organization that offers a range of resources and support for seniors, including information on social isolation and loneliness.
- The National Institute on Aging: A government agency that offers a range of resources and information on healthy aging, including social connections.
- The Oasis Institute: A nonprofit organization that offers a range of programs and services for seniors, including educational and social opportunities.
- The Red Hat Society: A social organization for women over the age of 50 that promotes friendship, fun, and support.
- SilverSneakers: A fitness program for seniors that offers classes and social opportunities.
- The Village to Village Network: A national network of local organizations that offer support and services for seniors who want to age in place.
Keywords: NRW80+ study; information and communication technologies; mediation analysis; onliners; psychological well-being.
Madeline J. Robertson, J.D., M.D.
Solutions for Reversing the Loneliness Epidemic — Founder, President & CEO at Here With You, Inc.