Time to Ponder Loneliness

Posted on May 23, 2023

I was awakened from a light nap to the sound of shouts and moans coming from another patient’s room, despite the best staff efforts, which continued throughout the evening. I asked about this gentleman when the nurse came into my room. I learned he was older, recovering from surgery, and lonely without family or friends nearby to visit. As I listened to his distress during that evening, I was reminded of the consequences of the negative impact it has on a patient's well-being.

A few years ago, while attempting to get a same-day appointment with my physician for a sudden onset of symptoms I had never experienced, I found myself in the emergency room after being directed there instead of an office appointment. After having been an employee at this medical center, it was a bit of a surreal experience to be there as a patient.

Eight hours later, and now wearing a hospital gown and with an active IV, I found myself being admitted, then transported by stretcher to the surgical unit. Somewhat concerned about the possibility of surgery the following day if my symptoms remained, I was thankful to know that I was in good hands, and grateful for a bit of rest, from an otherwise busy work schedule.

A few hours later, having sent my husband home, I was awakened from a light nap to the sound of shouts and moans coming from another patient’s room, despite the best staff efforts, which continued throughout the evening. I asked about this gentleman when the nurse came into my room to check vital signs, assure the IV was infusing as ordered, and give me the ordered medications.

In response to my question, I learned he was older, recovering from surgery, and lonely without family or friends nearby to visit. Following a prolonged stay, he was expected to be discharged in a few days to a nursing home.

As I listened to his distress during that evening, I was reminded of the consequences of being lonely - and the negative impact it has on a patient's emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being and recovery time during hospitalization. These include:

1. Emotional: Loneliness can lead to feelings of sadness, depression, and anxiety. Some patients may experience a sense of isolation, hopelessness, and a lack of support. Emotional distress can also lead to further exacerbation of existing health conditions, reduce motivation for self-care and hinder the ability to cope with the discomfort and pain associated with recovery.

2. Physical: Loneliness is associated with poorer physical health outcomes. It can weaken the immune system, increase inflammation, and elevate stress levels. Lonely patients tend to be more susceptible to developing or worsening chronic conditions, have difficulty adhering to treatment plans, and experience slower healing processes and increased pain.

3. Social: The absence of supportive relationships can lead to decreased motivation, reduced self-care practices, and a diminished sense of purpose. Social isolation can also limit opportunities for physical activity and engagement.

4. Mental Health: Prolonged loneliness can contribute to the development of worsening mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety disorders. These conditions can further impede recovery, as they may affect motivation, energy levels, and the ability to participate in rehabilitation or follow medical recommendations.

5. Spiritual: Loneliness can impact a patient's spiritual well-being by causing feelings of disconnection, loss of meaning, and lack of purpose. Spiritual distress can also hinder the patient's ability to find solace, cope with their situation, or access sources of spiritual support that could positively influence their recovery.

6. Slower Recovery and Healing: Loneliness can compromise the body’s ability to heal, reduce the effectiveness of medical treatments, and slow down rehabilitation. Additionally, patients may be less motivated to engage in activities that support their recovery.

Addressing loneliness and its impact on a patient’s well-being is crucial for promoting faster and more effective recovery. Healthcare professionals can play a role in identifying lonely patients and implementing interventions such as encouraging family involvement, social support programs, connecting patients with support groups, and considering the emotional and spiritual dimensions of care.

Patient advocates and care coordinators can help address the social and emotional needs of patients to ensure a more holistic approach to their recovery process.