Loneliness among the elderly: beware of diseases

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Extract from the article: During medical consultations, questions about smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity or weight are commonplace. However, an important aspect of health is often overlooked: social interaction. An American study recently highlighted the import

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During medical consultations, questions about smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity or weight are commonplace. However, an important aspect of health is often overlooked: social interaction. An American study recently highlighted the importance of this dimension, particularly among the elderly.

The study « Loneliness in older primary care patients and its relationship to physical and mental health-related quality of life » by Dr Williams-Farrelly and peers, published in March 2024 in the « Journal of the American Geriatrics Society », revealed that more than half of older people surveyed reported suffering from loneliness, with notable consequences for their physical and mental health. This research, carried out among more than 600 individuals with an average age of 73.5, highlights the significant impact of loneliness on the health of the elderly.

Dr Williams-Farrelly, first author of the study, stresses the importance of physicians taking this factor into account during consultations. He compares the assessment of loneliness to other common health measures, such as checking smoking habits or blood sugar levels. In his view, health professionals need to investigate loneliness, measure it and propose solutions to remedy it.

The study proposes the concept of "circles of friends" as an effective approach to combating loneliness among the elderly. These circles aim to encourage regular meetings between isolated individuals in the hope of creating lasting social bonds and friendships.Studies have shown that this approach can improve mental health, cognition and even reduce mortality in the elderly.

Older people face many life changes, such as retirement, the death of loved ones or divorce, which can make it more difficult to maintain social relationships. So it's important for doctors to screen for loneliness and recommend resources to help the elderly maintain, foster and develop their social interactions.

Raymond DZAKPATA