THE ROLE OF NURSES IN THE LONELINESS AND AUTONOMY OF ELDERLY PEOPLE IN SOCIAL ISOLATION

Abstract

The Elderly Statute defines elderly people as people aged 60 or over, recognizing their vulnerability to loneliness and social isolation at this stage. Loneliness is subjective and distressing, while social isolation is a measurable phenomenon. Both can harm the physical and mental health of elderly people, especially due to the loss of social networks, retirement, and physical limitations. To investigate the role of nurses in the context of coping with loneliness and promoting the autonomy of elderly people during the period of social isolation. A literature review was conducted. The importance of autonomy for elderly people is addressed, highlighting the negative impacts of social isolation, which harms self-esteem and physical and mental health. Nurses play an essential role in implementing strategies to preserve independence, such as environmental adaptations, use of technologies, emotional support, and healthy practices. However, challenges such as elderly resistance, lack of resources, and technological barriers require interdisciplinary approaches, innovation, and public policies to ensure a sustainable quality of life. It is concluded that nursing plays an essential role in promoting the autonomy and quality of life of the elderly, mitigating the impacts of loneliness and social isolation through holistic interventions and integrated public policies.