With November now in full swing, Canadians are gearing up for a pretty special spot on the calendar. In fact, many would refer to it as the most wonderful time of the year! The holiday season is well on its way and many people are preparing for family gatherings, parties and cherished traditions. But for many seniors, the holidays can bring senses of isolation and sadness.
According to a 2023 National Institute on Ageing (NIA) report, “as many as 41 per cent of Canadians aged 50 years and older are at risk of social isolation and up to 58 per cent have experienced loneliness before.”
Which factors can make seniors feel lonely during the holidays?
Considering their advanced ages, many older adults have experienced the loss of loved ones. With the passing of friends, spouses and family members, seniors often feel heart-wrenching absences during the holiday season. For many other elderly people, living far away from their loved ones can produce emotional struggles. With adult children spread across different cities or even countries, it can be difficult to gather in person.
Let’s not forget, of course, that having limited mobility can put a damper on holiday festivities. Physical limitations may prevent seniors from getting out and enjoying festive activities with friends and family. Their disabilities can also be exacerbated by weather conditions, lack of transportation or other health concerns.
How can loneliness impact seniors’ mental and physical health?
Dr. Samir Sinha is the director of geriatrics at Sinai Health and University Health Network in Toronto. He is also the director of health policy research at the NIA. As reported by Sean Previl of Global News, Dr. Sinha regards severe loneliness as the equivalent of smoking 15 cigarettes a day since it can contribute to heart disease or increased risk of dementia.
“He said being able to connect with others can have a number of health benefits, with studies showing those 75 and older who don’t smoke, get regular exercise and maintain meaningful social connections often live five years longer than those who don’t,” Previl informs.
What can be done to make your elderly loved one feel less alone?
The simple acts of spending some time chatting, sharing a meal or enjoying holiday music with your elderly loved one can work wonders. Consider working together on some holiday-based activities such as decorating a room, watching a holiday movie, baking a cake, solving puzzles or constructing holiday crafts.
Another great way to help out is to facilitate connections between your beloved senior and other special people in his or her life. Can you set up a Zoom call with loved ones who live abroad? Remember, of course, that many older adults aren’t particularly proficient in the technology realm. Opening up your laptop to host a face-to-face meeting between seniors and their family members makes for an awesome treat!
How can Senior Home Care by Angels help out during the holidays?
We believe that no one should feel lonely during the holidays. Our compassionate caregivers (“angels”) are dedicated to making the holiday season special for Calgary’s seniors. If you or a loved one could benefit from one on one Companion & Personal Care, please don’t hesitate to call us at 403-862-0129. If you’re outside of Calgary, call us toll-free at 1-877-209-6142. You may also visit our Contact Us page to complete and submit a simple contact form!