Loneliness among people in need of care: Causes, consequences and practical tips

Almost everyone has experienced it at some point - the feeling of loneliness. People in need of care are often particularly familiar with this feeling. In this article, we explain the reasons for this. We also reveal how to find out if relatives are lonely and give tips on how to protect your loved ones from loneliness.

An old man sits alone in his one-bedroom apartment. The ceiling lamp floods the dark room with light on this gloomy Sunday afternoon. It is quiet. 

Not even the birds are chirping. The family hasn't visited him for weeks. He doesn't have a single new message on his cell phone either. He's not just alone, he's lonely.

Loneliness has a name: Deprivation

Such loneliness is called psychological deprivation and is not uncommon, especially in older people. Deprivation is generally referred to as a State of Deprivation . of the lack that can also be found in everyday life. 

When dieting, for example, the effects of a lack of calorie intake can often be felt. Another example is sleep deprivation in the event of sleep problems or long nights. 

Deprivation therefore means that people are deprived of a desired psychological condition. The loneliness often felt by older people or those in need of care falls under social deprivation. This leads to social isolation and deprivation of social contacts. The presence of other people becomes rarer.

What are the symptoms of loneliness?

Mrs. Müller, a sprightly pensioner, has had little contact with her friends since the death of her husband. She used to be active in a choir and regularly visited her grandchildren. But now she is withdrawing more and more. She sleeps badly, has little appetite and often feels tired. These symptoms are often triggered by an unfulfilled desire. For example, the desire for love, companionship or togetherness. If one or more of these desires remain unfulfilled for a long time, this can trigger a depressing feeling of loneliness, of being forgotten.

• Physical symptoms: fatigue, sleep disorders, loss of appetite, pain, frequent colds.
• Psychological symptoms: Sadness, depression, anxiety, feeling of emptiness, isolation, difficulty concentrating, withdrawal from social contacts.
• Behavioral changes: Avoidance of social situations, increased alcohol consumption or substance abuse, irritability, aggressiveness.

Causes of loneliness

Why does social deprivation occur? Possible causes include hearing and visual impairments, but also spatial changes. An example of a spatial change is moving to a care home. 

Older people are particularly affected, as they are often restricted in their mobility, may rarely see their family and/or their partner may already be deceased. 

People with dementia are particularly at risk of social deprivation. A lack of stimulation can promote confusion. However, overstimulation is just as dangerous for dementia patients. Care staff must therefore find the right dose of stimuli for those in need of care.

Deprivation is not just a matter of age, however. It can also result from disability, poverty, unemployment or mental illness.

Loneliness: As dangerous as smoking

Loneliness can have the same negative impact on health as smoking and obesity. This is confirmed by aAmerican study in 2017. Symptoms and pre-existing conditions are exacerbated by the loneliness and isolation that older people find themselves in. The result: a devastating downward spiral from which it is difficult to escape, especially in old age.

Loneliness among those in need of care is more than just a feeling of emptiness. It can have a serious impact on our physical and mental health.

Imagine YOU are sitting alone in a room. The walls seem to crush you and a feeling of emptiness spreads through you. That is loneliness. And it is more than just a feeling. Loneliness in seniors is a serious condition that has profound effects on our health. 

The physical consequences are often devastating 

Sleep disorders keep you awake, your immune system is weakened and you feel more susceptible to illness. Even your heart suffers from loneliness. Studies show that lonely people have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. And that's not all: chronic pain is increased and your body ages faster.

Physical effects:

• Sleep disorders: Loneliness often leads to sleep problems such as difficulty falling asleep or sleeping through the night.
• Weakening of the immune system: Social isolation can weaken the immune system and increase susceptibility to disease.
• Increased risk of cardiovascular disease: Studies have shown that lonely people have a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes.
• Pain: Chronic pain can be exacerbated by loneliness.
• Shortened life expectancy: Some studies have even found a link between loneliness and a shorter life expectancy.

But your soul also suffers from loneliness. 

Depression and anxiety can be the result. You feel worthless and alone. Your thoughts revolve around the same negative topics over and over again. In severe cases, loneliness can even lead to suicidal thoughts.

Psychological effects:

• Depression: Loneliness is a common trigger for depressive moods.
• anxiety disorders: Anxiety and panic attacks can be exacerbated by social isolation.
• Reduced cognitive abilities: Loneliness can lead to a decline in cognitive abilities such as memory and concentration.
• Feeling of worthlessness: Single people tend to devalue themselves and develop low self-esteem.
• Loss of will to live:In severe cases, loneliness can lead to suicidal thoughts.

What does loneliness do to the psyche?

• Biological processes: Loneliness can lead to a change in hormone balance, which affects mood and behavior.

• Social Perception: Single people tend to interpret social situations more negatively and devalue themselves.
• Cognitive changes: Loneliness can lead to a negative mindset that affects overall quality of life.

Imagine your heart is a house. Many small inhabitants live in this house: joy, sadness, fear and hope. When we are lonely, the light retreats and the shadows lengthen. Joy and hope crawl into a corner, while sadness and fear dominate the house. It's as if a storm is sweeping through our insides and stirring everything up.

Why is that? 

Our brain is designed to make social contacts. If these are missing, our body releases stress hormones that make us ill in the long term. It's as if you're constantly under stress for no apparent reason.

Why is loneliness so harmful?

Single people tend to develop unhealthy behaviors such as overeating, smoking or drinking alcohol.

Do my relatives suffer from deprivation?

If you want to find out whether a relative or family member you are caring for suffers from If you want to find out whether a relative is suffering from deprivation, several interaction factors must be taken into account. The person should be challenged on a daily basis in sensory, cognitive, visual, auditory and emotional terms. Three questions can be used to check whether this is the case:

1. Are all your joints in motion every day?
2. Is the person in need of care regularly mentally challenged?
3. Does the person in need of care have regular social contact?

To counteract deprivation, these questions should be answered with YES be answered.

Dementia and loneliness

Dementia is a disease that can affect not only memory but also social interaction. People with dementia often withdraw because they feel overwhelmed by their symptoms or are afraid of making mistakes. This social isolation in turn exacerbates the symptoms of dementia and leads to a vicious circle.

How can relatives and carers help?

• Patience and understanding: People with dementia need a lot of patience and understanding.
• Structured environment: A structured environment provides security and orientation.
• Common Activities: Simple, everyday activities such as cooking, going for a walk or singing together can lift the mood and promote social contact.
• Reminder: Telling stories together or looking at old photos can bring back fond memories and strengthen the feeling of togetherness.
• Special offers: There are numerous offers for people with dementia and their relatives, such as memory training, singing circles or dance groups.

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Nora's tip: People with dementia also need social contact and affection. By providing them with a caring and supportive environment, we can help to improve their quality of life.

 

Technological Solutions

Digitalization offers new ways to stay in touch, even from a distance.

• Video calls: Platforms such as Skype, Zoom or FaceTime make it possible to get in touch with distant family members and friends.
• Special apps for seniors: There are apps that are specially tailored to the needs of seniors and, for example, set reminders, help with taking medication or provide social contact.
• Tablet computers and smartphones: Seniors can use simple tablets or smartphones to access the internet, write emails and send messages.

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Nora's tip: Not every senior is tech-savvy. That's why it's important to explain and guide the use of digital devices step by step.

 

Social institutions and associations

Social institutions and clubs offer a variety of opportunities to make social contacts and participate in social life.

• Senior Centers: Here, seniors can take part in various activities, such as gymnastics, games or shared meals.
• Volkshochschulen: The adult education center offers a wide range of courses and lectures tailored to the interests and abilities of the participants.
• Clubs: Whether it's a sports club, choir or gardening club - senior citizens can meet new people and share common interests in clubs.

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Nora's tip: It is advisable to enquire locally about suitable offers. There are often volunteers who can help seniors find suitable activities.

 

What is the need behind loneliness?

Mrs. Müller, once the heart of the local senior citizens' club, has missed not only the company but also the feeling of making a valuable contribution since falling ill. 

Behind the loneliness of people in need of care often lies a deep loss: the loss of independence, social recognition and prospects for the future. They long for more than just company - they look for meaningful activities, the feeling of being needed and a connection to other people. This longing for belonging, for a fulfilling life and for the feeling of being part of a community is a fundamental human need. Loneliness is not only a feeling of isolation, but can also lead to physical discomfort and significantly affect well-being.

• Affiliation: The need for belonging and social relationships is a fundamental human need.
• Sense: Loneliness can also be an expression of the need for meaning and significance in life.

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Nora's tips against loneliness

Following on from these questions, I will now tell you how you can protect yourself or your loved ones from deprivation or free them from this condition. These are my five tips against loneliness:

• 1. Find fun in exercise
  It has been scientifically proven that exercise and mobility are linked to well-being. Did the person in need of care used to have a dog? Take it with you to the next meeting and let them play together. Did the person in need of care used to enjoy dancing? Do a few steps together to music. Dancing is particularly effective as it engages many areas of the brain.
2. Challenge mentally
Another important tip is to challenge those in need of care mentally. Challenge their memory with games and puzzles. This not only makes training fun, but also makes it feel less lonely.3. Being there for each other
Regular contact with relatives or friends is an important factor in preventing loneliness. A meeting or a phone call to parents or grandparents can work wonders.4. Structure the daily routine
Eating together brings structure to everyday life and promotes a sense of community. Fixed visiting times, such as every Sunday at 3 pm for coffee, can help those in need of care to feel less lonely.

 

Imagine now, YOU can break this vicious circle. YOU can help your loved ones feel less lonely with or without care. With a little attention and empathy, YOU can make a big difference. And best of all, YOU don't have to be an expert. Small gestures and regular visits can work wonders.

Together we can fight loneliness and ensure that our loved ones lead a fulfilling life.

 

Nora's Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What can I do if I notice that my loved one is lonely?

Talk openly: Talk openly about the topic of loneliness with your relative. Show understanding and empathy.

Joint activities: Plan activities together that are fun for both of you and enable social contact.

Seek support: Get support from professional caregivers, therapists or self-help groups.

What role does the environment play in the loneliness of people in need of care?

The environment plays a crucial role. A friendly and stimulating environment can help to reduce loneliness. This includes sufficient daylight, personal items, regular activities and social contact.

How can I reduce the social isolation of people in need of care in care homes?

Regular visits: Visit your relative regularly.

Volunteer: Volunteer or look for volunteer visitors for your loved one.

Group activities: Encourage your relative to take part in group activities at the care home.

What role does technology play in combating loneliness?

Technology can play an important role. Video calls, social media and special apps for seniors can help maintain social contact.

What role does nutrition play in the mental health of people in need of care?

A balanced diet contributes to general health and can have a positive effect on mood. Make sure you have an adequate supply of vitamins and minerals.

 

Many people like to be alone sometimes, but nobody likes to be lonely. And you don't have to be, because there are many ways to protect yourself from loneliness, even if you need care. 

One thing is certain: at noracares, no one is alone, because you are part of a strong community that works together for care. Our nursing staff have the well-being of your relative or relatives at heart - and it shows.Register right here to find your perfect caregiver today.

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Glossary:

• Deprivation: A state of deprivation or lack, especially of social contact.
• Social Isolation: State of seclusion from other people.
• Loneliness: feeling of emptiness and loneliness caused by a lack of social contact.
• Dementia: A progressive disease of the brain that leads to a loss of memory, thinking ability and orientation.
• Nursing-home: A facility where people in need of care are cared for.
• Honor: Unpaid work for the benefit of others.

• Mental Health: State of emotional well-being that makes it possible to deal with life's challenges.
• Resilience: The ability to deal with difficult situations and emerge stronger.
• Social support: The emotional and practical support you get from other people.