Is loneliness the new disease of civilization?

- Loneliness is difficult to define clearly. According to the latest current definitions, it boils down to limited contact with other people, low levels of social support, or separation from society. In the elderly, loneliness can cause negative effects, both psychological and somatic, so it is very important that seniors do not feel lonely, explains Dr. Szymon Florek of the Department of Psychoprophylaxis in the Department of Psychiatry at the Silesian Medical University.

Lonely elderly people may be more likely to develop cognitive impairment. Various studies have also shown a link between feelings of loneliness and various sleep disorders, but also depression, angina, dementia, type 2 diabetes, and finally arthritis. So doesa prescription for loneliness even exist? Or is it worth considering how we can combat it?

- A natural part of such a struggle is integration into the local community, which brings together people who share the same passions and interests. Here we can mention housewives' circles, or those related to photography. Of course, there are plenty of such "interest circles", but... what to do in a situation when a senior simply does not sign up in any active ones in the area of her residence? - asks the specialist and adds: - A good idea then is to take an interest in any meetings of so-called "pensioners' circles," which operate in both larger cities and villages. Usually the program of activities for seniors is very diverse and includes, on the one hand, lectures on various areas of life, as well as excursions to interesting places. At this point it is also worth mentioning the extremely popular third-age universities these days. Very many universities have special units in their structures, which are engaged precisely in conducting classes for seniors. Of course, at this point the desire to learn something interesting, to draw knowledge, to acquire new skills comes to the fore. However, one should not forget about the other advantages of such classes, which are meetings with other people creating opportunities to exchange views and interests.

Source: SUM