Isolation and Loneliness May Increase Physical and Mental Decline

According to a study conducted by researchers from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), “18 percent of seniors live alone, while 43 percent report feeling lonely on a regular basis.”   They also found that people 60 years or older who reported being lonely had a 45% increase in a risk of death.  Furthermore, seniors who felt isolated had almost a 60% increase in the risk of mental and physical decline than those seniors who had more social contact.  

Conversely, studies cited by the National Institute on Aging show “people who engage in meaningful, productive activities with others tend to live longer, boost their mood, and have a sense of purpose. These activities seem to help maintain their well-being and may improve their cognitive function.”

There are many reasons that seniors attribute to their feelings of loneliness: retirement, death of a spouse and other family members, and a lack of mobility.  Another factor leading to isolation for some seniors is that more people are choosing to not have children, which reduces the number of family members with a stake in their well-being. 

At MorningStar of Rio Rancho, our mission is to provide the best senior housing Rio Rancho offers, and we provide seniors companionship along with a wide assortment of creative, thoughtful activities.   A quick look at our community’s monthly calendar shows a steady stream of activities such as exercise classes, cards, word and puzzle games, movie nights, church services, book club, bingo, restaurant-style dining and much more.  Contact us to learn more about our beautiful home-like atmosphere and the comfort, wellness and community we offer to our residents.     

MorningStar of Rio Rancho represents the finest in senior living with our distinct mission statement – “to honor, to value, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents within a beautiful setting.  Please contact us to learn more about the best senior housing Rio Rancho NM offers.

Sources:  agingcare.com/Articles/loneliness-in-the-elderly-151549.htm

nia.nih.gov/news/social-isolation-loneliness-older-people-pose-health-risks