Mindfulness
Combat Loneliness After 50: Therapist-Recommended Strategies
As we age, it’s not uncommon to find ourselves spending more time alone. Data from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Time Use Survey indicates that social interactions with children, family members, and friends tend to decrease after our thirties. By the age of 70, the average individual spends about eight hours per day alone.
This trend can have significant implications for our mental and physical health. In 2019, the U.S. Surgeon General even declared loneliness a public health crisis.
However, loneliness is not inevitable. The prevalence of this feeling indicates that there are many others out there seeking connection, just like you. By reflecting on your current relationships and considering where to find new ones, you can increase your chances of staying connected as you age. Here are seven effective strategies to combat loneliness after 50, as recommended by therapists.
Loneliness is a feeling, not necessarily a state of being alone. Suzette Bray, a licensed therapist, points out that comparing ourselves to others with busier social lives can make us feel lonely even when we’re not alone.
“Recognizing that everyone’s journey is unique and that it’s okay to feel lonely sometimes helps mitigate negative self-judgment and opens up space to take steps to reach out and connect,” Bray advises.
Bray also recommends embarking on a journey of self-discovery by trying out different activities. This can help you identify new passions and connect with others who share similar interests.
“Sampling a lot of new activities can help folks figure out what they enjoy and can lead them to finding companions who also enjoy these activities,” says Bray.
Volunteering is another effective way to alleviate feelings of loneliness. It provides an opportunity to meet new people and experience a sense of shared purpose.
“Offer your skills or interests to a local organization that you resonate with,” suggests Ray Christner, a cognitive behavior therapy specialist.
If you’ve found yourself drifting apart from others due to the demands of daily life, make a conscious effort to reach out and reconnect. Bray suggests that reconnecting with past relationships can be “especially rewarding” due to shared history and mutual interests.
Maintaining and deepening existing relationships is also crucial. Colleen Marshall, vice president of clinical care at Two Chairs, recommends scheduling regular times to connect with important people in your life.
“Having a regularly scheduled visit for connection can help deepen a relationship you already have and also remind you when you might feel lonely that you have a touch point with someone you care about coming soon,” she says.
Practicing “loving kindness meditation” can also help foster feelings of closeness when you’re alone.
“This form of meditation goes beyond calming the mind; it nurtures a sense of compassion and love for oneself and others, reducing loneliness and easing solitude,” Bray explains.
Finally, writing can be a powerful tool for combating loneliness. Christner suggests sending handwritten notes to loved ones, expressing gratitude, sharing memories, or offering words of encouragement. This not only helps you feel less alone but can also brighten someone else’s day.
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