How Can We Help Combat Loneliness Among San Diego’s Elderly? Here Are Some Tips

In the sunlit streets of San Diego, beneath the facade of a city vibrant with youth and activity, lies a silent crisis affecting our older adults. With 13.8 percent of San Diegans aged 65 and older, it’s crucial to address the pervasive issue of loneliness, a condition impacting more than one-third of adults in this age group on a regular basis. This isn’t just a matter of feeling blue on a rainy day; loneliness is a significant health hazard, with risks comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. It’s high time we, as a community, take concerted action to alleviate this silent epidemic.

The ramifications of loneliness and isolation are severe, increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke by nearly 30 percent and dementia by nearly 50 percent. Social isolation can also accelerate the aging process.

A 2023 advisory from Dr. Vivek Murthy, U.S. surgeon general, declared loneliness to be, “a public health epidemic.” Astonishingly, loneliness and social isolation costs the United States an additional $6.7 billion in Medicare spending annually, underscoring the economic, as well as human, cost of this issue.

Factors contributing to this epidemic include living alone, poor health, mobility issues and communication barriers such as untreated hearing loss or language differences. These challenges, compounded by social stigma and a fragmented health care system, make addressing loneliness all the more daunting.

However, hope is not lost. A study by the University of York during the COVID-19 pandemic in the United Kingdom demonstrated the profound impact of weekly phone calls on improving mental health in older adults. Participants who received calls from coaches encouraging activity and social engagement showed a notable decrease in depressive symptoms and loneliness. The calls reduced depression, and the benefits were greater than those seen for antidepressants. This intervention’s success highlights a simple truth: Connection matters.

So what can we do in San Diego to mirror these positive outcomes? First, we must acknowledge the problem and work to destigmatize loneliness. It’s not a personal failing but a societal issue that we must collectively address. Health care providers, community organizations and individuals can play a role in identifying those at risk and offering support.

Scheduling regular calls and visits to older relatives or friends, exploring transportation options for those with mobility issues and inviting them to start a hobby are practical steps.

Home care can empower aging adults to stay engaged in everyday life through support provided by care professionals. Companionship, building relationships and making clients feel valued are areas with the most impact. This is appreciated by clients and their families alike.

Local initiatives could include creating volunteer-based call programs, similar to the University of York’s study, to offer companionship and support to older adults.

Moreover, community centers and local organizations should tailor programs to meet older adults’ diverse needs, focusing on inclusivity and accessibility. Workshops on using technology for social connection, language classes and hearing health services could help break down communication barriers.

By investing in infrastructure that supports the elderly, from accessible transportation to older adults-friendly community spaces, we can create an environment where older adults can feel valued and connected.

As we move forward, let’s remember that combating loneliness among our elderly is not just about adding years to life but adding life to years. By fostering a culture of care and connection, we can ensure that our older adults in San Diego live their golden years with the dignity, respect and companionship they deserve.

Let this be a call to action for all San Diegans: to reach out, connect and make a difference in the lives of our elder community members. Together, we can turn the tide on loneliness and build a more compassionate, connected city.