The International Federation on Ageing (IFA) Conference provided a powerful platform to reflect on many of the challenges that come with growing older. One of the key issues highlighted was the increasing prevalence of loneliness in later life – a growing concern across the globe.
Did you know that chronic loneliness has been found to be as harmful to your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day?
Understanding Loneliness in Older Adults
That startling comparison, shared during the conference, reminds us that loneliness isn’t just an emotional state – it’s a serious public health issue that affects both mental and physical well-being. It can increase the risk of heart disease, depression, cognitive decline, and even premature death.
Why Loneliness Is Rising Among Seniors
As we grow older, many of us find that our social circles change – children grow up and move away, friends relocate or pass on, and retirement can sometimes bring a slower pace of life, sometimes faster depending on what you are doing. However, it will come as no surprise, then, that loneliness has become one of the most pressing issues facing older adults today. It’s not just about being alone – it’s about feeling disconnected, and that can impact both emotional and physical well-being.
“Loneliness increases the risk of premature death by up to 29%.”
At the conference, we also learnt that loneliness increases the risk of a premature death – by a percentage of up to 29%. That’s huge – it is associated with increased risk of depression and dementia. Covid didn’t do us any favours when it came to social isolation especially among older adults. The results of loneliness has resulted in a huge increased spend in medical costs.
What the World Can Teach Us – Lessons from Singapore
South Africa is not alone in facing the challenges that come with an ageing population. Many countries around the world are grappling with similar issues, and some are beginning to find innovative and inspiring solutions.
Take Singapore, for example. Like most countries, they’re experiencing rapid growth in their 60+ population. However, what sets them apart is their proactive investment in social and health infrastructure aimed at keeping all generations, in particular older adults – active, engaged, and purposeful.
Singapore’s initiatives are quite mind-blowing.
- They have introduced lifelong learning programmes – these programmes encourage older adults to develop skills, stay mentally stimulated, and connected to their communities. (There’s a lot the South African government could learn from this approach.)
- They’ve also developed structured Healthy Ageing Centres, which are truly remarkable.
- They have launched trigenerational programmes which are designed to bring together the young, the middle-aged, and the elderly in meaningful ways that foster mutual understanding, support, and connection across generations.
Turning Loneliness Around – It’s Possible
Loneliness is not a life sentence. It can be reversed. With meaningful connections, a sense of purpose, and an active social life, it’s entirely possible to overcome loneliness and truly thrive in the second half of life.
The Power of Community – Finding Connection Through YEI Hub
For many older adults, groups like the ones forming within the YEI Hub provide more than just a calendar of events – they offer a lifeline to connection, purpose, and belonging.
As an example, the YEI Hub – Southern Suburbs Cape Town group, has become a vibrant space where like-minded individuals aged 55+ can meet, share stories, form friendships, and engage in activities that enrich daily life. Whether it’s a social outing, or simply a coffee morning, these moments of togetherness help chip away at isolation.
We have heard from members who have joined the YEI Hub groups say that joining YEI has had a meaningful impact on their emotional wellbeing – and in some cases, has helped ease feelings of loneliness entirely.
Let’s change the narrative around ageing and loneliness
Through community progammes, volunteering at your favourite charity, or local groups like the YEI Hub, there are many, tangible ways to combat loneliness and help your peers live fuller, connected lives.
Where does one start? Take that first step. Reach out, get involved, and remember that it is never too late to make new friends, build new connections and rediscover that joy that you once had.
Growing older is not for sissies, but it certainly can bring opportunity, and no one should have to face that alone.
“Interested in starting a YEI Hub group in your area?
Reach out to us — let’s build connection together!”
A YEI article
