7 minute read
OPINION
Whenever I am together with a group of family and friends and I notice people preoccupied with their phones, I ask them, “Are you texting me?” Or, if I happen to have everyone’s cell phone number, I will send them all a group text, “Are you texting me?” Both usually get a chuckle and now, if I happen to get caught doing something on my phone, someone invariably sends me that same text or just asks me if I am texting them.
Maybe a little truth in humor?
My example is a simple scenario and one that is unfortunately played out in more homes and at work than any of us cares to admit. Did the pandemic make it worse as we became bored and went in search of ways to entertain ourselves? And now that we are back to work or in some kind of hybrid work environment, is our preoccupation more of a habit that gets under the skin of those around us? Or are others too preoccupied as well, lost in whatever is happening on their own devices?
Maybe a little truth in reality?
Our kids will basically give us an “Oh dad” or “C’mon mom.” Our friends might just say, “Dude, I am just checking the score” or “You gotta see this TikTok.” Although, whenever someone invites me to look at a TikTok, I really have no idea what that’s all about and I am not that interested in fi nding out either. I am sure next year there will be something that replaces it and will be so much cooler, something cool enough for a supercool guy like me to want to check out.
Maybe a little truth in lack of generational awareness?
During a recent dinner out with our associates I couldn’t help but notice at the table next to us was a couple. They appeared to be married and I would guess somewhere in their 40s. They sat across from one another looking at their phones. No conversation. I thought that they might just be looking at the online menu. But after the server came and took their order, they remained glued to their phones. Perhaps their favorite mode of communication is texting one another, and that was what they could have been doing. As dinner came out, they placed their phones on the table next to their dishes and continued to scroll as they ate.
Maybe a little truth in my preoccupation with others being preoccupied?
Here we are, at the end of the year. The holiday season provides us with incredible opportunities to connect, really connect with our family and friends. Thanksgiving set the table for our attitude of gratitude, for the sharing of love and appreciation, and for remembering those who are so very important to us. And as we roll into December, with its celebrations of Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve, it has given us even more time and opportunities to remember the true reason for this season, share family stories, exaggerate the myths and legends of friendship experiences that only get better with time, and just “be” with one another. We can talk about life and our future goals and dreams. We can remember loved ones who are no longer with us but whose memories fi ll the room with laughter and joy.
Maybe we can all become a little more occupied with not being so preoccupied?
What if we were intentional about being present in the present? What if we tried only using our phone to take pictures and wait until later to post them on social media? What if we used our phones and devices to only make calls and virtually see our family and friends who we could not be with us this holiday season? What if we took baby steps and just called for an hour of being technology-free this holiday season? I would love to hear your preoccupation story at mnorton@tramazing.com, and when we can focus on those who are right in front of us with greater intentionality, it really will be a better than good year.
WINNING WORDS
Michael Norton
friends might just say, “Dude, I am just checking the score” or “You gotta see this TikTok.” Although, whenever someone invites me to look at a TikTok, I really have no idea what that’s all about
Michael Norton is the grateful CEO of Tramazing.com, a personal and professional coach, and a consultant, trainer, encourager, and motivator to businesses of all sizes.
Isolation and loneliness carry health risks for older Americans
We’re heading into the holiday season, which is often embraced as a time to get together with friends and family to celebrate traditional holidays. However, what can be a joyous time for some, may be difficult for older adults who are more vulnerable to social isolation and loneliness. Particularly during the holiday season. In fact, a recent report showed that nearly one-fourth of adults aged 65 and older are socially isolated.
Loneliness and social isolation are serious health risks, particularly to at-risk individuals, such as older adults. A substantial body of evidence demonstrates that social isolation presents a major risk for premature mortality, comparable to other risk factors such as high blood pressure, smoking or obesity. In addition, poor social relationships (characterized by social isolation or loneliness) were associated GUEST with a 29 percent increased risk COLUMN of heart disease and a 32 percent increased risk of stroke. Perhaps most concerning is the fact that a person’s risk of premature death from all causes is significantly inTodd Wisser creased by social isolation, a risk that may rival those of smoking, obesity and physical inactivity.
As a general demographic, seniors can be more at risk for social isolation and loneliness. There are many tell-tale signs that you or someone you know is at risk for experiencing loneliness or social isolation. Risk factors can include but are not limited to disability or lack of mobility, worsening vision or hearing problems, separation from friends or family, illness or
and a 32 percent stroke. Perhaps most concerning person’s risk of premature death from all causes is significantly increased by social death of a loved one and lack of access to transportation.
Luckily, there are steps we can take to help combat the loneliness epidemic. All humans need social connection and interaction as part of their survival. But often as adults age, they begin to spend more time alone making them more vulnerable to social isolation and loneliness. Engaging in activities that are meaningful can boost mood and give people a sense of purpose. In addition to living longer, research demonstrates that productive people seem to improve cognitive function and are better able to maintain their well-being.
Some tips for staying connected include: • Learn something new – sign up for a class in your community •Reignite your passions with something you love — begin an old hobby • Explore volunteer opportunities with your local community that allow you to help others • Make sure you stay connected with your friends and family inperson or through phone calls, email, video chats or social media • Stay physically active and consider group exercise, such a walking club or working out with a friend • Find a faith-based or spiritual organization where you can engage with others in a meaningful way • If you are able, adopt a pet. Animals can be a source of comfort and may also lower blood pressure and reduce stress.
By employing some of these tips, we can do our part to help combat loneliness and support the social and emotional needs of the older adults we care about this holiday season.
Dr. Todd Wisser is an Internal Medicine Physician with New West Physicians, part of Optum.
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