In a post-pandemic world where loneliness has increased, it is important to explore how loneliness and memory loss may be linked in our vulnerable populations. Recent research reveals shocking insights into how loneliness can negatively impact memory for our elders (in addition to health overall!).
A recent study examined multiple experiences of older individuals. For example, cohabitation status, engagement in social activity, and reported social network contacts. The first conditions in line for exploration were perception of loneliness and social isolation.
It may be surprising that loneliness beat social isolation in overall memory loss over a six year period! The only condition displaying a more pronounced memory loss is, you guessed it, the presence of both.
A certain amount of cognitive decline is normal as humans age. This decline even leads many individuals to suspect they experience early onset Alzheimer’s. So how do we approach the affects of loneliness in our jobs as therapists? It can be hard to support populations that are facing symptoms of aging. Certain social conditions can positively and negatively impact the rate and severity of the decline. But clinicians help people learn how to influence their social conditions all the time.
So how can we use our therapist resources to tackle this issue? One thing that we can do is support elders in creating an environment with as many protective factors as possible. Some of these protective factors include intellectual stimulation with tasks or hobbies the individual enjoys (tasks they enjoy is key here) and continued learning. Engagement in social activities (with consideration of social skills training, if needed) and physical exercise also appear to be helpful. Healthy diet also shows support.
With this new found knowledge, we can encourage clients to seek out social support or otherwise reduce perceived loneliness. Additionally, we can encourage clients with aging family members to continue social connections as a way to support their loved one.
The effects of aging is something many people fear. It can often be scary to consider a reduction in mobility, energy, and cognitive functioning. With the assistance of continued research on aging, we can increase our knowledge for how to best support our clients find support they need to feel less lonely.
