Page 4 - BG Summer Newsletter 2023

4 BAYSWATER NEWS, SUMMER 2023
Health and Wellbeing
Christmas Loneliness: Combatting the Silent Epidemic for Ageing Australians
Lee Carissa, CEO, Cranbrook Care
This article originally appeared in The Daily
Telegraph
The festive season conjures images of families
gathered around roast dinners, adorned in paper
hats and cheerily arguing over bon bons. But sadly,
for many senior Australians, December amplifies the
feelings of loneliness or social isolation experienced
throughout the year.
Data from the Australian Institute of Health and
Welfare shows approximately 15 per cent of older
men and 20 per cent of older women feel lonely.
The figure could in fact be much higher due to the
associated stigma.
Given this demographic is growing in size – with
those aged 65 and over predicted to represent more
than a fifth of the population by 2066 – this issue
requires our attention. Particularly considering the
physical toll loneliness takes on us.
Studies compare the impacts of loneliness to
smoking 15 cigarettes per day. The World Health
Organisation says social isolation and exclusion are
associated with “increased rates of premature
death, lower general well-being, more depression,
and a higher level of disability from chronic
diseases”.
Of course, the issue isn’t exclusive to our ageing
population, but it’s acutely felt by this group, given
many lack the technological skills required to
maintain contact with loved ones, and feel loss at
the disintegration of their social lives. However,
simply feeling sorry for those who are suffering
doesn’t help.
We need a considered, multi-disciplinary approach
which recognises that individuals’ experiences of
loneliness and social isolation are unique. This
involves finding ways for seniors to engage in
society, remain active and, where possible, retain a
degree of independence.
Dedicated communities are a solution to create
connection, alleviate isolation, and strengthen care
– a fact which has been proven time and time again.
The recent media interest in blue zones – or regions
with the highest number of people aged over 100 -
has found a correlation between people who
maintain a tight-knit community and those who live
the longest.
The uplifting spirit of likeminded communities,
retirement villages or aged care facilities makes
them the ideal place to make new and lasting
connections. When coupled with activities that
enrich health and wellbeing, such as fitness classes,
hydrotherapy pools – excursions and social and
lifestyle activities, dopamine is released, self-esteem
is boosted and as a result, feelings of loneliness and
social isolation are reduced.
In the lead up to Christmas, we must focus on
raising public awareness around loneliness,
eliminating stigma and minimising feelings of
isolation throughout the continuum of care. This
should be a primary public health priority – not just
for policymakers and those in the industry, but for all
of us.