As the saying goes, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year,” but the holiday season can also be one of the loneliest, and this year that is amplified. So many senior citizens who see their relatives this time of the year will, for perhaps the first time, be marking Christmas alone.
Felicia Gould, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist at the University of Miami Health System tells News & Guts this is all taking a big toll:
In the context of the pandemic, the elderly, as a vulnerable population, are more isolated than ever. Isolation and the feelings of loneliness it can produce make depressed mood more likely and increase the risk for depression overall. Social isolation and loneliness are associated not only with depression, but also premature mortality, so this is a very concerning issue.
According to Gould, this is also having a negative impact on those who battle mental illness:
The holiday season has certainly been marred by the lack of group festivities and social gatherings we typically enjoy this time of year. Yet, it is essential that those battling depression remain socially engaged and socially active as much as possible. Loneliness and social isolation can acerbate depression and hopelessness, which can in turn increase suicidal thoughts in some cases. Once again, loneliness can have very real and concerning consequences and should not be ignored by friends, families, and caregivers.
We also have to remember those who have lost loved ones this year. Grief counselor David Kessler told NBC News:
“It will be especially lonely for the families of the more than 300,000 people in the U.S. who were killed by this cruel virus… It will be a holiday season like no other, because we haven’t seen the funerals like after 9/11 or after the AIDS crisis… This will be such an isolating Christmas.”
Here are some simple ways to reach out:
- Phone & video calls: Sounds easy we know but make an extra effort. It will go a long way.
- Care packages: You can’t mail anything today, but you can leave something at their doorstep or arrange something via Uber eats or other local delivery services.
- Notes, cards, decorations: Surprise a loved one with some decorations outside their door or even a simple note slipped under their door
- Watch something together virtually: Pick something holiday-related to watch or even play some favorite holiday tunes while on the phone or video call together.