Aging should be something to look forward to: more time to travel and spend with family and friends. After all, it’s a part of life, albeit one that comes with a variety of changes—physical, emotional and social. One major challenge, especially as more seniors choose to live alone, is building social connections. Studies show that a lack of social connection is akin to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.¹ Conversely, adequate social connection improves survival rates by 50%.²

We seek connection throughout our lives, be it at school, work or home. However, as the years pass and those familiar environments change, social interactions often decrease, leading to feelings of isolation. Loneliness can affect anyone, but it often becomes more pronounced for older adults. This can have serious implications for physical health, including increased risks of heart disease, stroke and cognitive decline. Understandably, many people confess to not reaching out or forming new connections due to health issues, a lack of confidence or a fear of burdening others.

A lack of social connection can be a sign of underlying mental health challenges. Just as we seek advice for financial health, we should seek advice for our mental health. With the right strategies and support, coping effectively and finding fulfillment in later life is possible.

Many folks in our community have moved here from other parts of the country to enjoy their later years, and some find it harder to build new social connections. Talk therapy can be a wonderful tool for navigating loneliness or other challenges that come with relocating, whether these feelings are temporary or more enduring.

During a recent conversation on a flight, a senior from the community stated that she has been connected with the local “Y” for decades, which gives her a social outlet and keeps her physically healthy. Yet she finds that people always seem busy, and worries her doctors and others see her as merely a number. If we seek more social connections and are unsure where to start, a therapist can be a great resource.

Some find comfort in a consistent relationship with a therapist, while others prefer to dip in and out as needs arise. Therapists can offer guidance during life transitions, such as grieving the loss of a loved one, adjusting to retirement or struggling with a lost sense of purpose. As you journey through this stage of life, therapy can help you cultivate self-compassion, recognize your inherent worth, and rediscover purpose in your experiences.

As our bodies and our lives evolve, there will be moments of loneliness or uncertainty. But it can also be a time to embrace new experiences, nurture connections and prioritize mental well-being. Allow yourself the grace to experience all of life’s emotions and be kind to yourself by seeking a little guidance when you need it.

Dr. Sheth is a practicing psychiatrist and co-founder and president of Headlight Health, a local mental health practice serving the Coachella Valley. He is also a member of Desert Doctors and can be reached at (760) 349.4050 or visit www.headlight.health.

Editor’s note: For more on this topic, see “Good Friends, Greater Health”.

References: 1) https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory.pdf; 2) https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/health-happiness/2023/10/11/from-loneliness-to-social-connection-lessons-from-research-and-a-global-pandemic/