Health Not everyone has the same reaction to the pandemic. It has affected us all but, for many, it has brought on isolation and significant loneliness… or made it worse. For many of us in the health-care field, we often associated loneliness with seniors who lived alone with very little social contact, but we are quickly learning that these symptoms are affecting huge numbers in all age groups as the pandemic continues. For those who have retired, are single and are living in apartments or condominiums, the boredom and isolation may be having profound effects including sleep disorders, depression, excessive alcohol consumption and other adverse mental and physical disorders. Their ability to participate in hobbies such as gardening and woodworking, social events and exercise, as well as many other activities during retirement may have been partially or entirely eliminated. For many snowbirds, their enjoyable active lives in the Sunbelt states, the islands, Mexico and even Europe were suddenly cut short at the urging of the Canadian and provincial governments to return home forthwith.They then had to face a 14-day isolation period, poor weather and almost everything shut down. Very few didn’t experience some degree of dismay and loneliness. Most of us grudgingly accept these limitations with the anticipation that they are only temporary but, for some, the restrictions, anxiety, fear and depression can become overwhelming. In recognition of this, numerous community groups have set up telephone and audio/visual lines of communication with susceptible persons, especially the elderly living alone. Volunteers are trained and given a short list of people who have requested this service, to regularly connect with them. In addition, thousands of volunteers across Canada are assisting with the collection and distribution of meals for the huge numbers in need. Even in normal times, we all experience loneliness from time to time, even though for most it will be temporary. It may be the loss of a family member, a friend or a separation leaving one physically or emotionally alone. One might even feel disconnected when there are others around. And it can happen at any age, but is far more prevalent in the elderly, especially the many who live alone. All of us who have been living through this pandemic and the restrictions that have been imposed on being with our children, grandchildren, mothers, fathers, siblings and friends have felt stress and loneliness. We are also more aware of how precious these interactions are and have a better understanding of the loneliness many live with every day, simply because they always lack such social interactions. CSANews | SUMMER 2020 | 49
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