10 Ways for Seniors to Overcome Loneliness This Holiday Season

For many of us, the greatest joy of getting past the pandemic was the ability to get together again in person, something that is especially meaningful for family and friends during the holidays. But this festive season can still bring feelings of isolation and loneliness, especially for seniors.

Still, whether you live alone in your own home or in a setting such as assisted living, there are dozens of ways to reduce loneliness by letting the spirit of the season surround you.

Loneliness Is Unhealthy for the Mind, Body and Spirit

Understandably, feeling all alone at a time of year that focuses on togetherness can make anyone sad. For seniors, social isolation significantly increases risk of depression, anxiety, dementia, stroke, heart disease and heart failure. There’s no joy in that! So let’s look at some easy ways you can overcome loneliness in your own life or help bring the joyfulness of the season to a senior you know.

1. Acknowledge how you feel

Loneliness is more prevalent than you might think (and not just among seniors). Pretending all is well or telling yourself to buckle up simply denigrates your very real feelings. Admitting how you feel means you can take steps to feel better.

2. Get festive!

Decorate, with a small countertop tree or figurine or menorah. Or, to conserve limited surface space, hang a wreath or a string of tiny twinkly lights around the window. Get a fragrant candle or some potpourri, because nothing says “holiday joy” like fragrance. Play holiday music. Wear your goofy holiday sweater or sweatshirt with holiday pride!

3. Communicate early and often

Remember when holiday cards poured into your mailbox each year? They brought news of friends and loved ones far away and spread good cheer to every recipient. Despite today’s prevalence of e-cards, you can still send real ones, and that can brighten any senior’s day, including your own.

4. Reach out to others

If you’re feeling down because you’re apart from loved ones, you can bet seniors around you are feeling that way, too. One of the easiest ways to lift your own spirits is by giving to others – a call, a chat in the hallway, or a cup of coffee together. The simple act of reaching out creates a connection that feels good for both of you. And who knows? You just might make a new fast friend for the new year!

5. Zero in on your favorite hobby

Engrossing yourself in something you love will keep you occupied and focused, great ways to combat loneliness. Stock up on books to read, knitting or quilting supplies, etc. and get busy. Bonus points if you are making small gifts for others.

6. Talk to someone who is a good listener

Sharing your feelings and concerns with someone else -- your pastor, for example – relieves the stress of loneliness. Be a good listener yourself, too.

7. Learn something new

Learning a new language, taking up a new hobby or sharpening your computer-savvy skills are all worthwhile endeavors. They can boost your self-confidence as well as your connection with the world around you.

8. Watch Holiday Inn and White Christmas for the 50th++ time

Sing along. By now you know all the words—the dance moves, too, probably. These iconic movies are seniors themselves – 81 and 69 years old respectively!

9. Focus on the meaning of the season

We all have things to be thankful for. Make a list and reread it if you feel down. This time of year religious beliefs are front and center, and that can be especially comforting. Bible study, worship services or the simple joy of getting together to sing familiar carols all enable you to rejoice in the spirit of the season.

10. Sign up for the Big Joy Project!

Seriously. Researchers at the University of California are conducting this online, ongoing worldwide experiment to see if pursuing tiny “micro-joy moments” can positively affect one’s mood and outlook. Results so far are amazing, with participants reporting increases in:

• Emotional wellbeing (up 26%)
• Positive emotions (up 23%)
• Feeling more empowered to be happier (up 27%)
• Greater contentment with friendships and relationships (up 30%)
• Better sleep (up 12%)

Anyone with an internet connection can participate, and it’s quick and easy to get started. So, in the spirit of the holidays, we just have to ask – who doesn’t want to start each day with a little joy?!

Our active senior living communities throughout southern Georgia can help you overcome loneliness too with regularly scheduled activities and various social groups. At Magnolia Manor, we're not just residents and staff members, we're all family. To learn more about senior living at one of our nine campuses, contact us at 1-855-540-LIFE.