LONELINESS is a growing crisis among the elderly, silently affecting their physical and mental well-being. Many seniors find themselves isolated due to the loss of loved ones, health limitations or societal neglect. The consequences can be severe, leading to depression, cognitive decline, and an increased risk of chronic illnesses. A study published in ‘Perspectives on Psychological Science’ found that chronic loneliness can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, increasing the risk of early mortality by 26%.
Take the story of Mr Johnson, an 82-year-old widower. Once an active member of his community, he now spends most of his days alone, his only company being the television and memories of a bygone era. His wife of 50 years passed away three years ago and since then, his world has shrunk. His children, both professionals working abroad, call occasionally but seldom visit. His once vibrant friendships have faded as old friends either moved away or passed on. Once an enthusiastic gardener, he now lacks the motivation to step outside. The silence in his home has become deafening, and he struggles with insomnia and loss of appetite—as well as other signs of depression.
Furthermore, beyond depression in the elderly, studies have shown that social isolation significantly increases the risk of dementia in older adults.
Mallam Dantani, a 79-year-old former community leader, faces a similar struggle. Once a respected elder in his town, he now finds himself alone in his family home. His children, who once played in the compound, have moved to the city, rarely visiting due to their busy schedules. His wife passed away five years ago. And while he initially found solace in his local mosque and community meetings, he gradually became less involved as his mobility declined. The local community that once gathered for festivals and storytelling sessions has changed, with younger generations favouring digital interactions over physical meetings. Despite his wealth of experience and wisdom, Mallam Dantani feels abandoned, his voice unheard. His health was gradually deteriorating and has worsened due to a lack of social stimulation, leading to memory lapses and frequent confusion. On particularly lonely days, he sits by his front door, hoping for a visitor or a familiar face to pass by. His few remaining peers have either passed away or are also battling similar isolation. He often listens to the radio to feel connected to the outside world, but the loneliness remains overwhelming.
A 77-year-old Mr Bunmi struggled with severe anxiety and loneliness after his only son relocated to London for work. Accustomed to their daily conversations and his son’s presence, he found the sudden physical distance unbearable, especially as a widower. Despite periodic phone calls, the time zone differences and busy schedules made meaningful interactions infrequent. Once a respected businessman in Lagos, he now spends most of his days staring at his phone, hoping for a message or a call. He stopped attending social gatherings, fearing he would be pitied. Over time, he developed high blood pressure and began experiencing symptoms of depression. Friends and extended family members tried to reach out, but he withdrew further, believing he had become a burden to those around him.
Read Also: Canadians sign petition to revoke Elon Musk’s citizenship
Madam Chinyere, before her passing, was one of the oldest women in the area, yet she spent her final years in profound loneliness. Once surrounded by children and grandchildren, she found herself alone as family members gradually moved away, leaving her in an empty home. She had been an active community member in her younger years, assisting in local women’s groups and helping raise funds for underprivileged children. As she aged, however, she saw fewer and fewer visitors. Her only source of companionship was a neighbouring shopkeeper who occasionally checked on her. Her health deteriorated as she longed for companionship, and her once lively home became eerily quiet.
Her story reflects the reality of many elderly Nigerians who, despite their past contributions to society, find themselves neglected in old age.
Conclusion
With the breakdown in the communal system of living with extended family support systems and increasing urbanisation has come a myriad of problems for families. Senior citizens and the elderly have been worst hit by these changes, resulting in extreme loneliness and attendant emotional and physical challenges.
We can do better. Community programmes, regular check-ins, and social engagement initiatives can make a difference. Family members, neighbours, and society at large must recognize the silent pain of the elderly and take steps to include them in everyday life.
Addressing loneliness among seniors requires collective action. A simple phone call, a shared meal, or a visit can bring immense joy and significantly improve their well-being. Let us not forget those who paved the way for us in their youth, now that they are in their twilight years. They deserve companionship, respect and care with their dignity preserved.
and then