5 Dangers of Living Alone

To maintain emotional and psychological wellbeing, it is important for seniors to interact with others or attend social gatherings. There are many dangers of living alone, especially for seniors who are on the verge of cognitive decline or those with declining health. Here are the five dangers of living alone for older adults shared by Tucson home care providers.

 Social Isolation

Studies show social isolation may reduce lifespan of seniors as well as cause several mental and physical health issues. However, social isolation may not directly affect the mental wellbeing of seniors, it may enhance the risk of cognitive decline, heart diseases, or infectious illness. Loneliness is a warning sign of social isolation in seniors, the reason they should spend some time outside or attend family gatherings to interact more with others.

Seniors might need occasional help in managing their daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, toileting, transportation, or mobility. If seniors need help with daily chores or emotional support, hire a Tucson in-home caregiver who is expertly trained in providing personalized care.

Chance of Depression

Many seniors feel depressed at an older age, but social isolation may or may not be the reason for it. Seniors may feel depressed because they have no interest in pursuing their favorite activities, preparing meals, or feel motivated to travel the world. Seniors with limited mobility or those with cognitive decline may also feel depressed at times.

High Rate of Anxiety

Living alone may cause anxiety and depression in seniors, especially those who have no one to interact with. Higher rates of anxiety may also cause dizziness, nauseated feelings, shortness of breath, or muscle tension. Major changes in environmental stress and mental health may be caused by anxiety. Anxiety in seniors may elevate if they are living alone knowing there is no one to help them in case of an emergency.

Risk of Fall Hazards

The risk of falling in seniors may increase after the age of 65. One of the leading causes of death is falling, either on the stairs or in the bathroom. Living alone may enhance the risk of falling in older adults because they have no one to look after them. Seniors may not have someone to help them after a fall if they live alone. Family caregivers who are unable to look after their senior loved one can consider getting respite care. Tucson seniors might feel safe at home with the help of professional live-in caregivers.

   
Unable to Maintain Housekeeping

Some seniors don’t feel motivated to maintain personal hygiene or accomplish daily household tasks. It can be the reason of social isolation in seniors. Living alone may lower the living standard of seniors because they neglect basic housekeeping such as preparing nutritious meals, showering, paying bills on time, or taking out the trash.