Helping Minimize Loneliness and Social Isolation in the Winter

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Winter in New York can be beautiful -- but this time of year can also increase social isolation and intensify feelings of loneliness, especially in older adults. Changes in their health can make it harder to connect with others, especially when shorter days, harsh weather, and icy conditions limit their ability to go out and interact with others. In addition, distance from family may lead to emotional isolation.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 in 3 adults in the United States report feeling lonely, and about 1 in 4 adults report not having social and emotional support.

But there's good news: with awareness and proactive support, older adults can enjoy being more connected, not only during the winter months, but every day.

Preventing Social Isolation

1. Encourage Regular Social Interaction

Meaningful connection doesn’t always require large gatherings. Small gestures can make a big difference, helping older adults feel remembered. Consistent phone and video calls, and even cards and letters, can help ease loneliness this time of year. Schedule a visit, and encourage your loved one to speak with friends and neighbors.

2. Help Them Join Community Activities

Community centers, senior programs, faith groups, and recreation programs often host events that promote social engagement and give older adults a sense of belonging.

CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) participants have access to our PACE centers, where they can enjoy activities with their peers, nutritious meals, and more than 100 other activities per month, designed according to their cultural and personal preferences.

3. Support Hobbies and Creative Outlets

Participating in enjoyable activities such as arts and crafts, painting, sing-alongs, and games boosts mood and encourages interaction. Hobbies can create natural opportunities to socialize while supporting emotional wellness.

4. Encourage Daily Exercise

According to the Mayo Clinic, regular exercise may help ease depression and anxiety by releasing feel-good endorphins and taking someone's mind off worries. Even small amounts of physical activity, such as being active for 10 to 15 minute intervals during the day can make a positive impact.

5. Make Transportation Accessible

A major barrier to social connection is simply getting from place to place. In the winter, this is made worse by icy walkways and roads and harsh weather. CenterLight PACE participants have access to transportation to and from their medical appointments, as well as CenterLight PACE centers. In general, older adults in the community may be able to minimize feeling unsafe or dependent on others through community shuttle services and senior transportation programs.

6. Look After Emotional Health

Emotional needs are especially important. Families and caregivers can:

Ask questions about how the older adult is feeling.
Help the older adult join support groups, where they can interact with like-minded peers.
Encourage their loved one to seek professional help if signs of anxiety or depression appear.
Provide companionship and support.

By taking intentional steps to support older adults through communication, community, meaningful activities, accessible transportation, and emotional care, we can help older adults feel more connected and supported.