Isolation and loneliness among seniors are the worst ever – especially given the global pandemic and lockdown, said CareChamp, who provides a platform for connecting vulnerable persons with home caregivers.
According to Sylvia Klopper, CareChamp CEO, the effects can be devastating for both the elderly and their family.
She said CareChamp connects vulnerable persons with trusted, reliable home caregivers (aka Champs).
The coronavirus epidemic is shining a light on loneliness among the elderly population.
“Now more than ever, we’re seeing how social isolation is a public-health concern. That said, it’s certainly not a new thing. That’s why CareChamp’s companion services and “Befriend a Grandparent” initiative will continue even after things return to normal.”
CareChamp recently conducted research into ageing in South Africa and have compiled their findings:
Did you know:
• SA’s elderly are an increasing percentage of the population and will double over the next 35 years.
• The share of adults aged 65 years or older living alone in South Africa has been steadily increasing in the past years to reach roughly 20 per cent in 2020.
• Seniors who suffer from loneliness have a 59 per cent higher risk of physical and mental health decline.
• CareChamp Investigates: Senior isolation
Statistics South Africa and a recent study conducted by the UN confirmed that adults aged 65 years or older living alone in South Africa have reached roughly 20 per cent this year. That’s close to one million seniors ageing alone. When you couple that with studies confirming seniors who live alone have a lower life satisfaction, it’s a crisis we must tackle.
• What causes loneliness in old age?
As we get older, it’s not uncommon for our social circles to get smaller. We retire and loved ones may start to move abroad or pass away. Add to that logistical challenges, such as loss of mobility and no longer being able to drive, and opportunities for socialising tend to decrease. Regardless of the causes of senior loneliness, the outcomes can be worrying and damaging.
• The effects of senior loneliness
Feeling lonely can leave seniors vulnerable, not only to physical but also mental health issues. Studies found evidence to link social isolation and loneliness to an increased risk for early mortality, chronic illness, and deteriorating mental health.
Adults who report feeling lonely are at higher risk of:
• High cholesterol
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Anxiety
• Depression
• How to treat senior loneliness
Click here for an infographic and Klopper’s expert advice on things we can all do to combat senior isolation.
