Aware that feeling alone is a factor that can undermine physical and mental well-being, a team led by nurse Clare Gardiner, from the University of Sheffield, England, undertook a review of studies on the presence of loneliness in clinics and institutions. long-stay patients (LSIEs). And the conclusion was, to say the least, critical: the prevalence of loneliness considered moderate ranged from 31 to 100% and that of severe loneliness ranged from 9 to 81% (depending on the survey consulted).

The findings demand a closer look at the psychic and social health of the elderly who live in this context. Especially because, with the aging of the population, the number of people over 65 years of age living in clinics and residences, temporarily or permanently, has increased.

Nobody is alone

Residential, family, health professionals: everyone has a role to play.

Visits: socializing with family and friends is essential for someone not to feel left out or excluded. Hence the importance of face-to-face visits, even at scheduled times.

Activities: A schedule of tasks and games creates a busier routine and encourages contact with other people. It could be a craft workshop, music class or even chess and dominoes.

Consultations: medical and psychological assessment — as well as the entire multiprofessional approach — makes it possible to identify and alleviate feelings and mental illnesses that need treatment.

Communication: even more in times of a pandemic, technological resources such as video calls bring the family closer and reduce moments of loneliness. The cell phone is an ally at these times.

The exercises: in addition to activities that work the head, moving the body improves mood and connection with others. Physical exercises are very welcome to mental health.

Assistance: It is not uncommon to see cases of people who are “forgotten” by the family in LTCFs. The support of the clinic and social workers helps to resolve impasses linked to neglect.

Source: https://saude.abril.com.br/mente-saudavel/a-solidao-nos-lares-de-idosos/

By Diogo Sponchiato Mar 28, 2021, 11:22 am