Conversation Guide for Older Adults
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Conversation Flow
Having a conversation about social isolation or loneliness can be difficult, and it is an important step toward improving overall social health. The conversation is more helpful when it is structured in a way that encourages open communication, builds trust and facilitates a productive dialogue.
1
Determining when to talk about isolation or loneliness
Consider talking to your health care practitioner about loneliness if feelings persist for weeks or months, affecting your mood, sleep, or appetite. Signs like withdrawing from social activities, neglecting personal care, experiencing physical symptoms like headaches or fatigue, or feeling hopeless or irritable may indicate that loneliness is impacting your well-being.
2
Preparing for the Conversation
Before the appointment, take a moment to think about how you’ve been feeling. It may be helpful to write down thoughts or questions you may have for your health care practitioner.
- How often do you feel isolated or lonely?
- Are there specific events or life changes (e.g., loss of a loved one, retirement, health issues) that have contributed to feeling more isolated?
- How is loneliness affecting your daily activities or overall mood?
3
Initiating the Conversation: Opening up
Gently introducing the topic of feeling isolated or lonely. This can feel like the most vulnerable part of the conversation.
Sample Statements / Questions:
- I’ve been feeling a bit more isolated and lonelier lately, and I would like to talk to you about it.
- I’m finding it harder to stay connected with others, and it’s been affecting my mood.
- I’m feeling more disconnected than I used to, and I’m not sure how to handle it. Can we talk about it?
- I’ve noticed I don’t see many people anymore, and I’ve been feeling lonely.
- Lately, I’ve been having a harder time getting out or socializing. I think it’s making me feel more lonely. Is there anything I can do about it?
4
Conducting the Conversation: Talking About Your Experiences
Sharing specific examples or feelings related to loneliness or isolation.
Sample Statements / Questions:
- I don’t have as many opportunities to meet with friends or family, and I often feel like I’m on my own. Do you have any suggestions for how I can spend more time with others?
- What do you think could be contributing to my feelings of being down or depressed, especially in relation to being isolated?
- How might my health or medications be impacting my ability to stay connected with others?
- How do you think my health issues and mobility challenges might be affecting my ability to get out and see people?
- What do you think might be causing my anxiety or worry about reaching out to people or attending social events?
5
Exploring Solutions Together
Inquire about resources, programs, or strategies to help reduce isolation or loneliness.
Sample questions:
- Is there anything I can do to improve my emotional well-being if I’m feeling disconnected from others?
- Are there community programs, groups, or activities that you would recommend to help socialize?
- What resources or programs do you think might be available locally to support older adults who are feeling isolated or lonely?
- How might seeing a counselor or therapist help me with my feelings of loneliness?
- Can you recommend any classes or resources that would help me learn how to use technology to stay connected with family and friends?
6
Concluding the Conversation: Next Steps and Follow-Up
Establish a clear plan for follow-up and ongoing support.
Sample Questions
- How do you feel about me reaching out if I’m feeling overwhelmed or need more advice?
- Would it be helpful to revisit this topic at my next appointment to see if things have improved?
Tips for a constructive conversation:
- It’s okay if all the questions are not answered. Sometimes just starting the conversation is the most important first step.
- HCSSPs are there to listen and help find the best way to manage and improve social connections and emotional health.