Many grandmothers are occupied for the longest part of their lives caring for others. They raise children, care for the home, prepare meals, offer love and support the family. However, as they age their function may shift. Maybe they don’t need to be used in the same manner. This shift can have a profound impact. It can cause them to feel rejected, even if the family still loves them. Senior loneliness isn’t necessarily physical isolation. Living with the family can feel lonely for a grandmother.
Old Age Loneliness
Grandmothers’ bodies may weaken as they get older. It may be difficult to walk, cook, clean or go outside. This can make them more likely to remain at home. Their social contacts could decrease. They might cease to engage in activities that they once enjoyed. As the body weakens, the world can seem smaller. This can contribute to the feeling of loneliness. There are also many emotional difficulties associated with old age. Grandma might miss her youth. She can lose track of the days when her kids were young and near her.
She might miss old friends, old routines and being active. These memories can be good and bad memories. Encourage them to see that although the past may be warm, the present may be empty. Another cause of loneliness is that perhaps the grandmothers do not wish to bother any person. They might not express sadness for fear of being a burden. May smile when hurt. They might say they are fine when really they need care, time and attention. This silence can add to their loneliness.
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In some cases, family members are unaware of the need of emotional support for a grandmother. They may believe that providing food, medication and a safe shelter is sufficient. These are all important, but love requires time as well. A grandmother requires kind words, patient listening, respect and closeness. Just as the body needs care, the heart needs care, too. She may feel she cannot get anyone’s attention when she may be sitting in the same room as others. This type of loneliness can be quite distressing.
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A grandmother may become lonely and this can impact upon her health and mood. It can cause her to feel tired, sad, worried or unwanted. She can become apathetic towards activities of daily living. She might feel that she’s no longer needed. This sensation can be difficult for the person who has donated so much during life. Grandmothers should never feel invisible. They are filled with Love, Wisdom, and memories. They require gentle care, respect and attention. In general, old age shouldn’t be a lonely period. It is a time of love, dignity and peace.
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