Island Health: Are you lonely? If so, you’re not alone.
BY THE BOCA GRANDE HEALTH CLINIC
Loneliness is more common than you might think and touches many lives. According to U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, America is facing an “epidemic of loneliness and isolation,” affecting millions across the country. This widespread issue impacts people of all ages, particularly older adults.
Recent research from Northwestern Medicine, published in the April 2024 issue of Psychological Science journal, reveals a critical pattern in loneliness: it tends to follow a U-shaped curve across the lifespan, with higher levels of loneliness in younger and older adulthood, and the lowest levels in middle age. This study found that older adults, particularly those who are widowed or divorced, are at significant risk of persistent loneliness.
Understanding Loneliness
Loneliness isn’t just about being physically alone. It’s feeling disconnected, even when surrounded by others. This feeling is often acute for older adults who have lost a spouse. The Northwestern study points to factors like social isolation and physical impairment as significant contributors to loneliness in later life.
As people grow older, they often experience changes in their social networks, whether due to retirement, the death of a spouse, or moving to a new community, that can exacerbate feelings of loneliness.
Dr. Lisa Berkman, a renowned researcher at Harvard, has extensively studied the impact of social relationships on health. Her work underscores that loneliness isn’t merely an emotional issue, but a significant health concern. According to Berkman, the absence of meaningful social ties can have profound effects on both mental and physical health, contributing to an increased risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cognitive decline.
The consequences of loneliness extend far beyond emotional pain. Research shows it can take a serious toll on physical health. Loneliness is associated with a higher risk of heart disease, dementia and even early mortality. For instance, a study published in Nature Scientific Reports found that loneliness increases the risk of cardiovascular disease by 16 percent, particularly in older adults.
“You would think that it is hard to be socially isolated in season on an island like Gasparilla, but that is simply not the case. We routinely see isolation-related problems here in our office,” said Bret Kueber, M.D., the clinic’s assistant medical director.
Creating Connections
Despite the widespread nature of loneliness, there is hope. Recognizing that you are not alone in these feelings can be the first step toward finding connection and improving your well-being. Dr. Ray James, D.O., the Clinic’s medical director, points to the Blue Zones, where people live active and fulfilling lives approaching 100 years of age. “A key element of Blue Zones is a sense of purpose and belonging and contributing to a community,” said Dr. James. “This can be difficult in Boca Grande, where we are physically isolated on a barrier island, with friends and family elsewhere.”
To overcome these barriers, Dr. James reminds his patients to make a concerted effort to maintain relationships by scheduling time to talk to family on the phone, via FaceTime, or by computer video access.
Community engagement can be a lifeline. Getting involved in local activities, whether through community centers, parks or social clubs, can help combat isolation. Studies show that people living in neighborhoods with accessible public spaces are less likely to experience loneliness because these areas encourage social interaction and community involvement.
Technology, when used mindfully, can also be a powerful tool for connection. While social media has been criticized for contributing to feelings of isolation, it can facilitate meaningful interactions when used to connect with others who share interests or to stay in touch with distant friends and family.
Moving Forward
There are steps you can take to build connections and improve your well-being. Whether it’s reaching out to a friend, joining a community group or simply taking the time to engage with others, small actions can make a big difference.
Drs. James and Kueber emphasize the importance of collective responsibility in combating loneliness. If you know someone who lives alone or has recently lost a spouse or significant other, consider reaching out. “This season, please reach out and reconnect with your friends and neighbors here on the Island,” urges Dr. Kueber. It is amazing how a simple phone call, a visit, or even an invitation to join you for a meal or an activity can help lift someone’s spirits and may also protect their health in the long run.”
Dr. James also encourages staying connected. “Be sure to check on friends and neighbors and keep them engaged,” Dr. James suggests. “Nothing brings a smile like stopping in with a few fresh mangos and asking, ‘Haven’t seen you lately, how are you doing?’”
