2 minute read
Clifden House
HOw LONELINESS cAN LEAd TO AN INcREASEd RISk OF dEMENTIA IN AduLTS
As social isolation has been increasing among older adults, a new study shows a notable link between loneliness and dementia risk.
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Researchers found a three-fold increase in risk of subsequent dementia among lonely adults under 80 years old who would otherwise be expected to have a relatively low risk based on age and genetic risk factors.
Their study also found that loneliness was associated with poorer executive function (i.e. a group of cognitive processes including decision-making, planning, cognitive flexibility and control of attention) and changes in the brain that indicate vulnerability to Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD).
‘These signs have become particularly acute in the past two years where COVID isolation has meant that it has literally been a health risk to meet together with friends and family. Acknowledging signs of loneliness in yourself and others, building and maintaining supportive relationships and providing much-needed support for the people in our lives who are feeling lonely are important for everyone. But they’re especially important as we age to increase the chances that we’ll delay or perhaps even prevent cognitive decline.
The social environments we live in day-to-day are a vital part of leading a healthy, vibrant and thriving life.
At Clifden House, we ourselves feel we are coming out of hibernation as we can reintroduce visits and events to the home, including the welcome return of the Tickled Pink theatre and musicals group, who have treated our residents to so many wonderful and heart-warming shows in the past. We use these events as an opportunity for family and friends to come and join our residents, just as they would at a live event out in the community. Re-engaging with that sense of community is as important for us as a home, as it can be for each and every individual.
Sometimes, the best way to take care of ourselves and the people we love is simply to regularly reach out and check in – to acknowledge and be acknowledged. Every day our activities coordinators are engaging with residents and maximising their social interaction, whether in a one-to-one chat over the papers and a cup of tea, or by discovering some new interest or old hobby that makes them come alive in the present.
We can share with each other when we’re feeling lonely, appreciate with each other how loneliness is common, and accept that giving and asking for support can be hard. Fortunately, loneliness can be cured, with something as simple as a smile and a hello. We may need to be creative in figuring out new ways to connect, but the chances are that even the smallest gesture will have been worth it.
Clifden House Dementia Care Centre has been delivering exceptional residential and respite care for 50 years. It aims to maximise everyone’s potential through choice, reducing the use of unnecessary medication and alleviating the symptoms of dementia in a caring and supportive environment.
