The Three Plagues of Aging and How to Avoid Them

Loneliness, Helplessness, and Boredom are often referred to as the “three plagues" of aging. Although this may sound a bit dramatic, these “plagues" can greatly diminish the quality of life and reduce the longevity of our aging parents just like any other disease.

As our parents grow older, we might notice signs of these plagues sneaking into their lives. This entire month on the TalkElder blog, we provide tips, suggestions, and resources on each plague individually so you can help your parents combat them and continue to have active, social, and fulfilling lives. Let’s dive into an overview and general suggestions to fight each plague.

Loneliness: Building Connections

Our aging parents have many changes at this time of life that can decrease their social circles; loss of loved ones and friends, retirement, health issues, geographic changes and lack of transportation. Loneliness can really affect our aging parents, impacting their mental and physical health. Did you know that nearly one-fourth of adults aged 65 and older are considered socially isolated? Loneliness can lead to serious health issues like depression, cognitive decline, and even an increased risk of mortality. 

Community and connection are the keys to combating loneliness, which can be done in many ways.

- Encourage Social Activities: Help your parents stay socially active by finding local clubs, senior centers, or hobby groups. Many communities offer programs specifically designed for seniors.


- Use Technology: Show them how to use technology to stay connected. Video calls with family, online interest groups, and social media can be great ways to keep in touch when visiting isn’t possible.


- Regular Visits and Calls: There’s nothing like the warmth of regular, face-to-face interactions. Schedule consistent visits and calls to ensure they feel remembered and valued.

Helplessness: Empowering Independence

Aging can bring about physical and cognitive changes that make daily tasks more challenging, leading to feelings of helplessness. According to the World Health Organization, about 15% of adults aged 60 and older suffer from mental disorders like depression and anxiety, which can make these feelings even worse.

Finding creative ways to empower your parents’ independence can prevent the feeling of helplessness as our parents age. 

- Adapt the Home Environment: Make home modifications to improve safety and accessibility. 


- Promote Physical Activity: Encourage exercises that match their abilities. Regular physical activity can improve strength, balance, and overall health, boosting their confidence in managing daily tasks.


- Encourage Decision-Making: Involve them in decisions about their care and daily routines. Whether it’s choosing their meals, activities, or even the clothes they wear, having a say helps maintain their sense of independence.

Boredom: Stimulating the Mind and Spirit

Boredom can set in when our parents feel there’s nothing meaningful to do and when they feel as if they have lost purpose.  Research shows that engaging in stimulating activities can significantly reduce the risk of cognitive decline. In fact, older adults who participate in mentally stimulating activities are 47% less likely to develop dementia!

- Introduce New Hobbies: Help them discover or rediscover hobbies. Whether it’s gardening, painting, reading, or puzzles, engaging in activities they enjoy can fill their days with purpose.


- Lifelong Learning: Many educational institutions offer courses for seniors, both in-person and online. Learning something new can be exciting and stimulating, keeping their minds sharp.

- Volunteer Opportunities: Volunteering can provide a sense of purpose and community. Look for local organizations that need help, and match their interests and abilities with suitable roles.

Caring for aging parents requires a blend of patience, empathy, and creativity. By addressing loneliness, helplessness, and boredom, we can significantly enhance their quality of life. Remember, the goal is to help them feel connected, capable, and engaged. Let’s work together to ensure our parents age with dignity and joy.

Sources:

1. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. (2020). “Social Isolation and Loneliness in Older Adults: Opportunities for the Health Care System.”
2. World Health Organization. (2017). “Mental Health of Older Adults.”
3. Wilson, R. S., et al. (2012). “Cognitive Activity and the Cognitive Morbidity of Alzheimer Disease.” JAMA.

Remember, together...