Some people avoid social interactions, and some want to but don’t have anybody to socialize with. Don’t be confused, as they are two different things. ‘Social Isolation’ is when you don’t have many people to interact with, whereas ‘Loneliness’ is when you feel alone. Though both these can go hand-in-hand, it is important to recognize the differences as each issue affects people differently

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There are many early signs of loneliness that we can identify and help people in need with. To put it in simple words, people who lack social conversations and relationships, tend to feel lonelier. Though this cannot be the only factor that determines loneliness, other factors to consider can be:

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- Lack of irregular sleeping patterns

- Change in appetite

- Refusing to socialize much

- Lack of every

-day motivation

- Mood swings

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There can be many negative outcomes if these signs are neglected, both in the individual’s mental and physical health. If you notice any of the above or see something that is different in an Elderly person that you know well, please reach out to find help. They say, ‘Self-love is the best love’, Here are a few ways you can drive out loneliness:

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• There can be many negative outcomes if these signs are neglected, both in the individual’s mental and physical health. If you notice any of the above or see something that is different in an Elderly person that you know well, please reach out to find help. They say, ‘Self-love is the best love’, Here are a few ways you can drive out loneliness:

• Socialize with Small Talks: Do your mates go for walks in a group daily? That’s a good place to start. Join the group on alternate days and in no time, you will want to join them every day. Remember, these small talks will help you get comfortable gradually.

• Get Active: Is solitude your better friend? It’s okay. Start doing light workouts and physios in the comfort of your home. Keep your mind and body relaxed and connect with your inner self

• Make your phone your best friend: Making a call to your friends and relatives once in a while and having video calls and exchanging messages will help you feel included.

• New day, new beginning: Make a list of activities or places you want to visit or do and try to strike off one from the list every month.

• Prioritize your health: A good healthy diet and high-quality sleep are essential for good mental health. Good nutrition improves your physical health, balances your feelings, and takes care of your physical body. A good sleep, on the other hand, makes you less prone to chronic diseases like diabetes, obesity, etc

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Some other ways to get rid of loneliness and Social Isolation are:

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• Helping Others: Did you notice someone else going through the same phase as you do? Offering them a helping hand to come out of that isolation, would mentally help you to feel less lonely.

• Getting a pet: Though it is not a replacement for humans, it surely will give you better company and make you feel less lonely. Plus, their love for you is unconditional so they will help you get through tough days easily

• Tutoring: Were you a good gym coach back in the day? Or a yoga instructor? Were you everyone’s favourite professor in college? Make this your new job and start taking classes at your convenience.

• Making plans with friends and family: Do you feel everyone around you is too busy to make recreational trips? Be the bigger person plan a mini-holiday and make new memories.

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Feeling lonely or isolated is completely normal, please don’t let anyone invalidate your feelings. However, dwelling on those emotions is wrong. Seek the right help and overcome those little demons because everyone deserves a happy, loving, and fun life. If you are still unsure of how to overcome loneliness, join Companion. We offer the best quality services within Chennai (and hope to expand within the State and other States soon) for Elderly people and ensure you feel less lonely

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