Page 14 - Leisure Living Magazine: Autumn 2020 Edition

Let’s Talk About This Public Health Threat: Loneliness
There is a public health threat looming across the United States that’s not visible to most but affects nearly half of all Americans daily: loneli- ness. Social isolation is as bad for your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day and is twice as harm- ful as obesity. Worst
of all, loneliness is a
contributing factor
in senior suicides,
which are rising in
the U.S. While it is
not something people
like to think about,
now more than ever,
Americans must re-
move the stigma
around mental health
and spread awareness
to better combat lone-
liness.
example, Philips Cares is a mobile application that helps connect seniors who are subscribers to Philips Lifeline service with their family and friends, helping to enable these caregivers to be there for their aging loved ones, easing and en-
riching their aging journey.
• Make a connec- tion: Connecting with people, purpose and passions will help eliminate feelings of isolation. Consider organizing a reoccur- ring social gathering, either in-person or electronically, such as a book club or a group fitness class. Explore local activ- ities organized by a
senior community center or
find a National Council of Aging program through http://www.ncoa.org/
ncoa-map.
Learn More
For further facts about the latest technology to help seniors stay connected with their care circle, visit https://philips.to/2MGDqLm or call (855) 223-7395.
Modern technology can help keep you con- nected. For example, Philips Cares can connect seniors who subscribe to Philips Lifeline service with family and friends. http://bit.ly/37J29as
Many of the 12 mil-
lion Americans over age 65
who live alone are entering
the time of year where the lack of companionship and isolation is most palpable: winter. Whether physical or travel challenges keep seniors from attending family gatherings or the harsh weather deters them from venturing out, seniors can suffer from prolonged loneliness that can quickly mani- fest into more serious issues.
Loneliness does not have to be synonymous with getting older or with aging in place. Here are tips on how to help keep loneliness—and its nega- tive health effects—at bay:
• Intervene early: Spotting loneliness in your- self or someone you love can be difficult. The most common physical and behavioral signs of loneliness include persistent sadness, impaired cognitive performance, lower self-esteem, or lack of motivation and energy. Early intervention can positively affect one’s quality of life, so it’s import- ant to address these symptoms as soon as possible before they become overwhelming.
• Leverage technology: Technology can play a key role in reducing loneliness, ensuring seniors are always connected to loved ones and care teams who can monitor and interact with them. For
14 |LeisureLiving Autumn 2020
www.LeisureLivingMagazine.com
An exercise class can be a great place for older adults to make new friends.
Practice Social Distancing
Stay a Picnic Table Apart!
6 feet
Courtesy of
Lake Front Publications