How to reduce loneliness in aged care

Understanding loneliness in aged care

We all know that socialising is great for our wellbeing - even one positive interaction with a stranger can make a powerful impact on our mood. The same goes for individuals living in aged care homes. 

Research shows that one in five older Australians experience loneliness, especially those aged 75 and over*. This increases for older people living in aged care homes. However, there are many causes of loneliness that go beyond social isolation, such as the grief and loss of loved ones in your generational group, or physical challenges which make it difficult to engage in the community.

At BaptistCare, we understand the impact loneliness can have and its association with cognitive decline and poor health. In this article, we explore the proven ways to reduce loneliness in aged care homes, and how you can assist your loved one who may be experiencing it. 

*Household Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia, HILDA survey.

Causes of loneliness in aged care

It’s not as simple as labelling a lack of social interaction as the sole cause of loneliness in older people in aged care homes. Many physical, social, emotional, and lifestyle concerns can cause and increase the impact of loneliness on people’s quality of life and wellbeing. 

Unfortunately, as we age, we are more vulnerable in the face of these circumstances. If your loved one is experiencing loneliness, consider whether the following causes may have contributed to this. 

• Illness, disability, poor physical health and mobility.
• The death of friends, family members, and partners.
• Alcohol and drug abuse.
• Retirement, redundancy, reduced income.
• Loss of senses and cognitive capacity.
• Significant change and moving residences.
• Lack of community and family interaction.
• Mental and emotional challenges.
• Limited transport and reduced independence.
• Lack of spiritual fulfilment.
• Feeling unsafe or insecure.

The impact of loneliness on health

No matter what initially caused the loneliness, it can impact your loved ones’ health, and can become more serious over time. Mild and temporary cases tend to harm appetite and mood. However, more challenging health implications include increased withdrawal from friends and family, physical and mental decline, and even deep depression. Here are three stages of loneliness to be mindful of. 

1. Self-imposed isolation and anti-social behaviour
   Perhaps you’ve seen your loved one pulling away and not actively participating in social settings in the aged care home? They may be feeling a lack of confidence caused by loneliness. It impacts people’s willingness to put themselves in social situations, and this anti-social behaviour can create a concerning cycle.
2. Physical and psychological impact on health
   Scientific studies have proven that loneliness and social isolation can lead to major health issues, including a clear association with increased blood pressure, heart disease, cognitive decline leading to dementia, and reduced immunity in older people.
3. Depression and higher rates of suicide
   The vicious cycle of loneliness can eventually spiral into mental health disorders, impacting sleep, nutrition, activity and wellbeing. It may lead to more crippling psychological conditions, such as depression and suicidal thoughts.

Awareness is the first step to understanding the challenges your loved one may face in an aged care home. If you’re concerned about your loved one experiencing loneliness, you can seek help from your residential aged care team and relevant health professionals. There are also proven strategies that you can use to reduce the impact of loneliness on older people’s health in aged care homes.

Strategies to reduce loneliness in aged care homes

Carers, residential aged care teams and family members working together can help create a more supportive and connected environment for residents. We can all play a role in supporting ageing Australians in their fight against loneliness and enhancing the overall wellbeing and quality of life of aged care residents. 

To prioritise the emotional and physical wellbeing of your loved one, consider the following actions. 

1. Choose an aged care home with a person-centred approach
   At BaptistCare, we are committed to providing person-centred care that promotes independence, quality of life, and a sense of belonging. We do this by focusing on the individual. 

   Our homes are strong and supportive communities, with caring, attentive staff. With our My Team Approach, our residents have the same familiar faces engaging with them and providing loving care each day. This enables deeper connections, a better understanding of residents’ needs and preferences, and support for a more meaningful life. 

2. Encourage connection and engagement in the aged care home
   Good aged care homes offer social and evidence-based lifestyle programs with the purpose of building connection and promoting wellbeing for their residents. We suggest encouraging your loved one to be involved in the activities and programs that resonate with their passions, from arts and crafts, music and reading clubs to exercise groups.

   Engaging in daily activities such as these and eating meals in the communal dining area help to foster social interaction and reduce loneliness.

   In building genuine supportive relationships, BaptistCare offers Chaplaincy care free-of-charge in our aged care homes. Our chaplains exist to support residents through life’s challenges and experiences. They form genuine relationships, even if residents are not religious.

3. Schedule regular connection with your loved one in aged care 
   Set a regular time to check in for a video call or personal visit and encourage regular visits from family and friends. Engaging in meaningful conversations, and really listening, can have a powerful impact. This will also give you an understanding of what they are currently enjoying in life. We recommend you engage in their hobbies, interests and passions. Together, you might listen to music, watch classic movies, enjoy time in the garden or share a meal.

At BaptistCare, we understand that loneliness can have a significant impact on an individual’s mental and physical health. It is important to our dedicated team that your loved one is well cared for, feels safe and lives well. We support people with dignity and respect, whether your loved one is independent, has complex clinical needs or requires dementia care, right through to end-of-life palliative care. 

It’s why we implement person-centred care, focused on enhancing wellbeing and quality of life in our aged care homes. You can explore BaptistCare aged care homes near you on our helpful interactive map.

Find BaptistCare aged care services near me 

If you would like to know more about BaptistCare residential aged care services, why not chat with one of our friendly team – we’d be happy to talk with you about your situation and care needs and can arrange a tour around your nearest BaptistCare residential aged care home. 

Use our simple online search tool to explore BaptistCare Aged Care Home locations across NSW, ACT and WA.

Click the link below to learn more about BaptistCare services:

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