Loneliness in Ageing

The current scenario as regards to ageing people clearly shows that their numbers have increased over the last few decades worldwide and tend to be so in the coming years also. Urbanization, modernization and globalization have led to change, in the economic structure, the erosion of societal values, weakening of social values and social institutions such as the joint family. In this changing economic and social milieu, the ageing adults are experiencing absence of adequate social support which leads to loneliness. These changes are compelling many of our elderly to live alone, though it must be said that some of them have chosen to do so. Loneliness has been described as -the subjective, unwelcome feeling of lack or loss of companionship-. Loneliness can be considered as a biggest enemy of ageing population. Factors leading to loneliness are living alone, advancing age, widowhood, low levels of education or income, poor health and infrequent contact with family. There are many ways to help overcoming loneliness such as connecting with the people, peer support, making friends and social contact. Loneliness play cardinal role in the quality of life of ageing adults in all societies and especially where formal support and social protection programs are not available.