With the increase in life expectancy, the issue of loneliness among older people has become a major societal issue. This phenomenon, although often silent, affects a growing number of seniors in France and around the world. Understanding the different forms of loneliness that affect this population is essential to better respond to it, especially since technologies such as video conferencing are now offering concrete solutions to break isolation.
The multiple faces of loneliness
The loneliness of older adults can take many forms:
- Social loneliness, which results from a lack of contacts or regular relationships. It often occurs after significant life events: death of the spouse, separation from the children, retirement, loss of autonomy or moving to a foster structure.
- Emotional loneliness, even in the presence of others, is characterized by a feeling of emotional emptiness or lack of deep and meaningful connection.
- Geographical isolation, when relatives live far away or mobility is reduced (health problems, lack of transport, unsuitable environment).
- Digital isolation, linked to the technological divide that prevents some seniors from accessing modern means of communication.
A phenomenon that is growing rapidly
In France, according to the 2021 report of the Fondation de France, more than 4 million people aged 60 and over feel alone. Of these, nearly 900,000 are in severe social isolation, almost never seeing their loved ones or having regular social interactions.
Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 1 in 3 older people are lonely. This number tends to grow with the aging of the world’s population: by 2050, one in six people will be over 65.
Loneliness is not just a psychological problem: it has direct consequences on health. It increases the risk of depression, cardiovascular disease, cognitive impairment and even premature death. A study published in Perspectives on Psychological Science (2015) found that social isolation increases the risk of premature death by 26%.
Video calling, a vital link in the face of distance
iven the geographical remoteness of families, digital tools can play an essential role. Video conferencing, in particular, allows to recreate a form of presence despite the distance. Seeing the face of a loved one, sharing a moment live, even through a screen, brings real comfort and strengthens emotional ties.
These tools are also valuable for doubt: when a senior does not answer the phone or seems to be in distress, a video call allows a relative or professional to see his condition, to check living conditions or to intervene quickly if necessary.
Many initiatives are being launched, combining digital support and the fight against isolation. Some associations, such as Les Petits Frères des Pauvres, have set up regular call systems, sometimes in video, to recreate social ties. Local authorities are also equipping seniors’ homes with simplified tablets with integrated video calls.
Conclusion
The loneliness of older people is a complex, multifaceted and far-reaching reality. In an increasingly digital society, communication tools such as video conferencing are becoming valuable allies to maintain social ties, even at a distance. It is also necessary to support the elderly in their use and adapt these technologies to their needs. Because beyond the tools, it is the warmth of the human bond that remains the key to combat isolation.