Loneliness: A Byproduct Of Caregiving

Chronic loneliness is growing rapidly in the United States.

A recent survey conducted by the AARP shows that 20 percent more older adults suffer from chronic loneliness now than did 10 years ago. This means there are millions of adults over the age of 45 suffering from chronic loneliness. Everyone gets lonely from time to time; however, chronic loneliness occurs when a person constantly feels isolated and pushes other people away–creating a self perpetuating condition.

Not only is chronic loneliness detrimental to one's emotional well-being, it also presents dangers to a person's physical health. Evidence shows that chronic loneliness increases a person's chances of diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep disorders, weakened immune systems, and Alzheimer's disease.

Caregivers are especially at risk. They are busy coordinating doctor visits, running errands, and helping with someone's daily needs – plus they still may have their own families to attend to and jobs to juggle throughout the day. That does not leave them with much extra time to spend with friends or participate in leisure activities.

Caregivers can feel weighed down by the difficult choices they need to make and the responsibility they need to burden. Although caregivers may be around people throughout the day; they still can become lonely. They may be reluctant to share their burdens with friends and family. They worry that if they express their feelings, others may think of them as complainers. Some feel guilty when they do unload their problems. If you catch yourself falling into this trap, take the time to recognize the situation and reach out for support–both psychological and emotional.

Try to maintain or re-establish personal relationships. Go to lunch or have coffee with a friend. If you've retired, stay in touch with former colleagues. If you feel you don't have time to fit another activity into your busy schedule, ask a friend or family member to accompany you on one of your caregiving errands, like a shopping trip.

Online support groups can be useful too. Look for a secure online support group with other caregivers where you can safely discuss the challenges and stresses of caregiving.

Another place to reach out sympathetic others would be at a local religious organization or in volunteer group.

Realize that your time and mental health is important too. The more you are able to balance your life; the better you will be able to be a caregiver.

Resource: AARP