As you age, you might find it harder to seek help when you need it. Living alone after 60 might not be the best idea as you might come across complications such as falling frequently or feeling isolated. Here are three reasons why you should not live alone after 60!
Falls
One of the most significant disadvantages of staying at home is the lack of safety. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an aging adult falls every second, and one out of four individuals has experienced a fall. As we age, our bones become more brittle and the healing process can take longer, which is why even minor falls can result in serious injuries.
When an aging adult falls, they might experience broken bones, which is common and harmful, but it is traumatic brain injuries and hip fractures that are particularly severe. If you fall, it is important to get checked out by a medical professional as soon as possible. Along with the physical damage, you may experience psychological repercussions such as fear of falling and lack of confidence.
When you live alone as a mature adult, you may not have somebody to help you to ensure that your home is safe from falls. If you trip and fall, there may be no one around to help you. Falling alone can be a frightening experience for the elderly.
Social Isolation
Social isolation occurs when we are cut off from our family, friends, and eventually, the community. According to a study, social isolation shortens one’s lifetime and causes physical and mental health problems. When an aging adult begins to isolate themselves socially, they risk developing heart disease, infectious sickness, and cognitive impairment.
Living alone can make social isolation easy to occur as you might not be motivated to get out. People want meaningful emotional connections and are happier because of socializing benefits. Simple acts of kindness, such as offering words of encouragement, can boost morale. When aging adults live alone, this simple emotional interaction may be hard to come by.
Depression and Anxiety
Depression is more than just a feeling of sadness. Depression can present itself in a variety of ways, including a loss of interest, focus, hunger, and motivation. Some aging adults may suffer from depression without realizing it.
As you live alone, you may not be aware of your depression. If you are living with someone, they might be able to obtain a varied perspective of what is happening.
Anxiety can be caused by changes in the brain and external circumstances. As an elderly who lives alone, you may experience anxiety because of changes in brain chemistry as you grow older or by the fact that you are living alone. Since you may not have someone to talk to regularly, you are at a higher risk of anxiety.
About Independent Living at Seaton Voorhees
In our independent living community, you will never be alone! With our exclusive senior living programs, you can enjoy various lifestyle services and programs with like-minded friends. We offer a maintenance-free living for those who wish to live independently. You do not have to worry about cleaning your home as we provide all the amenities and services you need! To find out more, do contact us today!
