Loneliness is beyond the scope of medical practice.
For many older people, loneliness may be more distressing than their medical diagnoses. We suggest that primary care providers consider referral of high risk patients to social workers or community agencies for consideration of social programs such as group meals, senior center activities, and volunteerism which ameliorate loneliness.
People in the medical community have to ask themselves: Are they controlling blood pressure or improving health and well-being.
Its Imperative that family, friends and love one’s stay connected with the elderly in some type of way. like writing letters, sending pictures, making a phone call from time to time. These small actions could play a major role in extending one’s life.
