Unwanted loneliness is a phenomenon that affects millions of people worldwide, and Spain is no exception. According to data from the State Observatory of Unwanted Loneliness , it is estimated that around 3 million people over the age of 65 in Spain suffer from this situation.
Unwanted loneliness is defined as the subjective experience of social isolation that a person does not desire . It differs from desired loneliness in that, in the latter case, the person does not have the opportunity to be in contact with others, whereas in desired loneliness, the person does have the opportunity but rejects it.
Risk factors for unwanted loneliness
There are a number of factors that can increase the risk of unwanted loneliness in older people, such as:
- Aging : Aging is a natural risk factor for unwanted loneliness, as older people are more likely to lose loved ones, retire, and live alone.
- Gender : Women are more likely than men to experience unwanted loneliness. This is because, in general, women have a longer life expectancy and are more likely to live alone.
- Marital status : People who are widowed, divorced, or separated are more likely to suffer from unwanted loneliness.
- Physical and cognitive abilities : People with physical or cognitive health problems are more likely to suffer unwanted loneliness.
- Socioeconomic conditions : People with low incomes or who live in rural areas are more likely to suffer from unwanted loneliness.
Consequences of unwanted loneliness
Unwanted loneliness can have negative consequences for the physical and mental health of older adults. These include:
- Cognitive impairment : Unwanted loneliness can increase the risk of cognitive impairment, such as dementia.
- Depression : Unwanted loneliness is a major risk factor for depression.
- Cardiovascular diseases : Unwanted loneliness can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension and heart disease.
- Premature mortality : Unwanted loneliness has been linked to an increased risk of premature mortality.
How to combat unwanted loneliness: Prevention and care
There is no cure for unwanted loneliness, but there are a number of steps that can be taken to prevent or address it , such as:
- Family and social support : Family and social support is essential to prevent unwanted loneliness. Older adults should maintain contact with their loved ones and participate in social activities.
- Intervention programs : There are specific intervention programs to address unwanted loneliness in older adults. These programs may offer social support, group activities, and social skills training.
- Public policies : Public policies can also play an important role in preventing and addressing unwanted loneliness. Measures that can be adopted include:
- Support for families and caregivers : Support for families and caregivers can help older people stay in their homes and have more social contact.
- Promoting social participation : Promoting social participation, such as involvement in community activities or leisure groups, can help older people connect with others and reduce their social isolation.
