Governing bodies claim that older adults tend to adapt more effectively to feelings of solitude.

In the midst of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, a poignant image of an elderly woman looking out from her balcony, shared by dts Nachrichtenagentur, serves as a reminder of the isolation many older people are facing. This image, however, paints only a partial picture of the situation, as the German government asserts that older people, not isolated in care homes, are coping better with loneliness during this crisis compared to younger individuals.

This assertion, made by the government, is based on surveys and reports from senior care providers, which suggest that older individuals find it easier to adapt to staying at home and forgoing usual social contacts. However, FDP health spokesman, Andrew Ullmann, cautions against jumping to conclusions, arguing that social contacts are more essential for the well-being and physical and mental health of the elderly than for younger people.

Ullmann, in a call to action, has demanded the establishment of an expert commission to scientifically address the issue of loneliness and provide policy recommendations. He emphasises that loneliness must be seen as a fundamental challenge and is still a taboo topic, with some feeling ashamed about it.

The health ministry acknowledges that mistakes have been made in addressing loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic and that these mistakes should be avoided in future pandemics. They state that the current situation has exacerbated the "loneliness epidemic" in Germany, a problem that was already evident before the pandemic.

Interestingly, the names of the experts officially appointed in the expert panel demanded by Ullmann are not publicly specified. Despite this, the health ministry stands firm in their assertion that older people are coping better with loneliness during the COVID-19 crisis.

However, Ullmann's concerns are not unfounded. He argues that the government's assertion is disputable, pointing out that older individuals may need social connections more than younger people for their overall well-being. As the pandemic continues, it is crucial to address this issue scientifically and provide policy recommendations to ensure the well-being of all, especially the elderly.

Governing bodies claim that older adults tend to adapt more effectively to feelings of solitude.