Signs of Loneliness and How to Talk About It
Loneliness can sneak up quietly — especially for older adults who may be living alone, managing health changes, or simply missing the social rhythms they once had. As families, we often sense something feels “off,” but it can be hard to pinpoint exactly what’s changed… or how to bring up the topic without making someone feel judged or incapable.
Here’s a gentle guide to recognizing signs of loneliness, knowing when companion care might help, and approaching the conversation with compassion.
Signs Someone May Be Feeling Lonely or Socially Disconnected
Some signs are obvious. Others are subtle and easy to overlook. Here are the big ones to watch for:
1. Withdrawal from social routines
If they’ve stopped attending their regular activities — coffee meetups, church, walking groups, clubs — it may indicate they’re feeling isolated or anxious about participating.
2. Increased irritability or sudden mood changes
Loneliness doesn’t always look like sadness. Sometimes it shows up as frustration, impatience, or short-tempered responses.
3. Loss of interest in hobbies
When someone stops engaging in the things that used to bring them joy, it’s often a sign that their social world has shrunk.
4. Changes in communication patterns
Maybe they call more than usual… or hardly at all. Both can be signs that someone is craving connection or withdrawing because they feel embarrassed to ask for help.
5. Neglecting household tasks
Dishes piling up, laundry undone, clutter building. These aren’t just “messy moments” — they can signal that someone is overwhelmed or lacking motivation because they’re alone most of the day.
6. Changes in eating habits
Skipping meals, eating convenience foods, or losing interest in cooking can happen when there’s no one around to share a meal or keep routines steady.
7. Expressing feelings of being a burden
This is one of the clearest signs of emotional loneliness. Seniors may hesitate to ask for companionship because they don’t want to “bother” their families.
How Companion Care Helps
Companion care isn’t medical — it’s human. It’s about connection. A companion can:
Share meals and conversation
Play cards or games
Go for walks
Help with errands and appointments
Offer weekly check-ins
Support hobbies, interests, and everyday routines
Simply bring warmth, consistency, and joy back into the day
It’s support with dignity — and often the first step before someone might ever need higher levels of care.
How to Talk to About Loneliness or Companion Care
This can feel delicate. Here’s a simple approach:
1. Start with observation, not accusation
Use neutral, caring statements: “I’ve noticed you haven’t been going to your Tuesday group lately — how are you feeling about everything?”
2. Normalize the experience
Everyone feels lonely sometimes. Let them know this isn’t about “needing help” — it’s about staying connected and supported.
3. Focus on their goals, not your worries
Instead of “I’m worried about you…,” try: “I know how much you love getting out for walks — having someone to go with might make that easier and more enjoyable.”
4. Offer choices
People respond better when they feel in control. “Would you prefer someone to come once a week? Or maybe just for outings?”
5. Try a short-term trial
A two-week or one-month trial period can make the idea feel less overwhelming.
6. Emphasize companionship, not supervision
This is the biggest fear: feeling like someone is “watching” them. Frame it as friendship, connection, and support — not oversight.
What If They Resist?
Totally normal! Change is uncomfortable at any age. Try:
Reassurance (“This isn’t about taking away independence.”)
Time (“Let’s revisit this in a couple of weeks.”)
Framing it for you (“It would bring me peace of mind.”)
Highlighting the fun things (“Someone to play cards with! Someone to bake with!”)
Small steps often open the door.
Helpful Resources to Explore
Here are some supportive services and tools to help you navigate next steps:
✔ Simplifying Your Life – Companion Care & Concierge Support
A trusted local service offering:
Companion visits
Check-ins
Outings
Errands
Light support for daily activities
Emotional and social connection
✔ 211 Alberta
A free, confidential helpline that connects you with community programs, social supports, and senior services.
✔ Alberta Health Services – Home Care
For families exploring government-funded options or additional supports.
✔ Local Seniors’ Centres
Many offer low-cost programs, social groups, fitness, and volunteer companionship.
✔ Faith and Cultural Organizations
Community-driven connection through events, meals, and outreach.
✔ Family & Community Support Services (FCSS)
Each municipality offers programs focused on well-being, connection, and aging in place.
Final Thoughts
Loneliness doesn’t mean someone is failing — it means they’re human. Companion Care offers families peace of mind and gives our care recipients connection, purpose, and someone to share the day with.
If you’d like help exploring whether companion care is the right fit, or want to learn more about Simplifying Your Life’s services, support is just a message away.