Dementia and Social Isolation and Loneliness.

Dementia can add a very complicated layer to the already complicated issue of isolation and loneliness in older adults. 

Oftentimes with dementia sufferers, the problem with communication and connection is the initiation of the interaction.  Good conversations can and do happen with dementia patients, but just relying on the patient to get the interaction started can be the stumbling block. 

Robots.  Build or program a robot to get a dementia sufferer’s attention.  For example, when a remote family member wants to talk to the person on the phone, the robot would be programmed to approach the dementia-ed person and then just start talking or initiating the phone conversation.  Thus, the interaction is initiated remotely for the family member via the robot and it is easy for the dementia sufferer to join in.

A lower-tech option: A big sign.  For the same goal of helping to remotely initiate the interaction, you could also use a large sign on the wall in the room.  So, when a phone call from a family member comes in for the dementia sufferer, a special noise will be created.  Correspondingly, a large sign on the wall of the room will say “If you hear a noise, then press the red button on your pad.”  This will help the dementia sufferer get started in the interaction, from a remote location.

Other interesting points regarding dementia were:

 Visitors may need advice and instruction.  Interacting with dementia sufferers can be difficult and challenging at times.  Not all well-intentioned visitors know how to interact with folks with dementia.  Thus, visitation can be boring and awkward.  Basic advice and instruction could be helpful and keep visitors interested incoming back again.

Pets and music can also be beneficial for making a connection with a dementia sufferer.  If regular personal or family visits are not very successful, pets or music may be an option that opens the door to connection and communication.

Housing Solutions for Social Isolation. 

Some interesting options in housing can help combat isolation and loneliness among older adults.  Especially as we get older, the type of housing we occupy can greatly affect not only our physical but also our mental wellbeing.

All-age residential hotels.  There are "all-age’ living facilities, compared to more age-segregated communities.  More specifically, they like the atmosphere and higher energy, as well as the increased opportunities to connect with different ages and learn new things.   

Accessory unit rentals.  As one becomes older, and as family situations change, a current house could become too big for one person.  Accessory units (or ‘granny units’) on the property can be rented out, or maybe separate living quarters can be made of current house space.  Housing rental could also be exchanged for home maintenance, help, and companionship.  Graduate students would be good candidates for this option.

Co-housing.  Somewhat of a newer option that seems well-received thus far is co-housing, where residents (old and young) share living facilities.  The benefits for older adults are shared help, companionship and contact with younger generations.  However, such facilities are few in a number of areas, and efforts need to be made to ensure residents are harmonious with each other.

Apartment-complex social programs.  Some apartment complexes also provide organized social programs, which can provide multigenerational contacts to avoid isolation.