Holiday Loneliness and Severe Weather: A Difficult Combination for Older Adults

Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency in several California counties, including Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, and Shasta. According to the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services,: "A series of atmospheric rivers has brought intense rainfall and strong winds to areas where the ground is already saturated, increasing the risk of flooding, landslides, debris flows, and rapidly rising creeks and rivers."

While these conditions are dangerous for everyone, they can be especially difficult for older adults, particularly those who live alone. Severe weather can increase isolation, limit mobility, and disrupt access to essential services.

At the same time, the holiday season can already be an emotionally challenging period for many older adults. Feelings of loneliness may surface or deepen due to the loss of loved ones, fewer social gatherings, reduced mobility, or the absence of familiar holiday traditions. When environmental emergencies and the emotional weight of the holidays overlap, the impact can feel overwhelming for older adults who may already be vulnerable. A significant number of older adults ages 60+ in the counties under the state of emergency live alone:

• San Diego County - 20% 

• Shasta County - 23%

• Riverside County - 18% 

• San Bernardino County - 17%

• Los Angeles County - 19% 

• Orange County -18%

Resources For Older Adults If you are an older adult feeling overwhelmed, or if you are concerned about someone who may be struggling, these resources are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week:

• Disaster Distress Helpline: Call or text 800-985-5990 for crisis counseling, referrals, and emotional support related to natural disasters.
  

• Friendship Line: Call 888-670-1360 to connect with a trained listener for emotional support. This warmline is designed for older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers, and is available in multiple languages.
  

• 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Call, text, or chat 988 for immediate emotional support at any time.
  

Checking In Can Make a Difference

If you have an older neighbor, friend, or family member living alone, especially in an affected area, a simple phone call or message can mean more than you realize. Connection, reassurance, and knowing someone cares can help reduce fear and loneliness during an already difficult time.

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This article was made by  Elder Love USA.

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