People who become more isolated as they get older typically display these behaviors (without realizing it)

As we age, it’s not unusual to see our social circles shrink.

Often, this happens subtly, the result of habits and behaviors we unknowingly adopt over time.

But isolation, especially in later years, can be more than just a lonely experience—it can also impact our mental and physical health, as well as our ability to innovate and problem-solve in our professional lives.

Certain behaviors may unknowingly push people towards isolation.

Let’s explore some of these typical behaviors that can lead to increased isolation without us even realizing it:

1) Clinging to comfort zones

As we age, it’s natural to lean towards stability and predictability.

The familiar feels safe and it’s easy to fall into the pattern of sticking to what we know.

It might mean maintaining routine habits, visiting the same places, engaging in the same activities, or interacting only with a close circle of long-term friends.

While there is comfort in familiarity, this behavior can limit our exposure to new ideas and people.

Clinging to comfort zones can subtly lead us towards isolation.

As our world becomes smaller, we miss out on opportunities for new connections and experiences.

This can impact not only our personal lives but also our ability to adapt and innovate in our professional endeavors.

It’s important to recognize this tendency and challenge ourselves to step outside our comfort zones occasionally.

This could be as simple as trying a new activity, starting a conversation with someone outside our usual social circle, or embracing new technologies that could expand our reach professionally.

Embracing uncertainty and novelty can lead to personal growth and open doors to new relationships, reducing the risk of isolation as we age.

2) Avoiding technology

In today’s digital age, technology plays a significant role in how we communicate and connect with others.

However, many people, especially as they get older, tend to shy away from embracing technology.

I’ve noticed this trend in my own life.

There was a time when I was hesitant about using social media platforms or trying out new apps.

But, I soon realized that avoiding technology was limiting my ability to connect with a wider circle of people and ideas.

Not being tech-savvy can lead to feeling disconnected from the world around us and can contribute to isolation.

It can also hinder our ability to keep up with modern business practices and innovations.

In the words of Albert Einstein, “Once you stop learning, you start dying.”

Embracing technology is not just about keeping up with the times; it’s about continuing to learn, grow and connect as we age.

3) Ignoring their emotional intelligence

Emotional intelligence is a critical skill that can greatly impact our quality of life as we age.

It involves the ability to understand, use, and manage our own emotions in positive ways to relieve stress, communicate effectively, empathize with others, overcome challenges, and defuse conflict.

However, some people tend to ignore or undervalue their emotional intelligence, which can lead to increased isolation.

They may struggle with understanding their feelings or those of others, leading to miscommunication or conflict in relationships.

By increasing your emotional intelligence, you can better navigate your feelings, understand others, and build stronger, more authentic connections.

Understanding our emotions and those of others is a vital part of maintaining social connections and reducing the risk of isolation as we age.

4) Prioritizing self-reliance over community

In our modern society, there’s a strong emphasis on individualism and self-reliance.

While it’s important to be able to stand on our own two feet, this mindset can sometimes push us towards isolation, especially as we age.

I firmly believe in the power of community and the fundamental worth of every individual.

We are social creatures, wired for connection.

When we prioritize self-reliance over community, we limit our opportunities for shared experiences, mutual support, and growth.

It’s not about giving up our independence but about recognizing the value of interdependence.

This involves reaching out to others for help when needed, offering our support in return, and actively participating in community life.

Belonging to a supportive community can provide us with a sense of purpose, shared joy, and resilience in the face of challenges.

It reminds us that we are not alone and that our lives are interconnected with those around us.

Valuing community over excessive self-reliance is an essential step in reducing isolation as we age.

Acknowledging our need for others doesn’t make us weak; it makes us human.

5) Fear of vulnerability

Fear of vulnerability is a common human trait that can lead to isolation, especially as we age.

Being vulnerable means opening ourselves up to potential hurt or rejection, and it’s natural to want to protect ourselves from these feelings.

However, I believe that embracing our vulnerabilities, rather than avoiding them, can lead to transformative personal growth and deeper connections with others.

It requires courage and self-awareness but can ultimately help us lead more authentic lives.

When we allow ourselves to be vulnerable, we create space for genuine conversations and meaningful relationships—it invites empathy from others and fosters mutual trust.

On the contrary, avoiding vulnerability can build walls between us and the people around us, leading to increased feelings of isolation.

In one of my videos, I explore the concept of giving up on being a ‘good person’.

A key part of this involves embracing our vulnerabilities instead of striving towards an idealized version of ‘goodness’.

YouTube video

Overcoming our fear of vulnerability is a powerful step towards reducing isolation as we age.

It allows us to show up authentically in our relationships and fosters deeper connections with those around us.

6) Overvaluing independence

Independence is often celebrated in our society—it’s seen as a strength, a sign of resilience, and self-reliance.

However, overvaluing independence can sometimes lead us down a path towards isolation, particularly as we age.

While it’s important to have the ability to take care of ourselves, the idea that we should always be self-sufficient can create barriers between us and others.

It can prevent us from seeking help when we need it or from accepting support when it’s offered.

I strongly believe in taking responsibility for our lives, but not to the extent that it isolates us from others.

True empowerment comes from recognizing when we need help and being willing to ask for it.

It’s about understanding that needing others doesn’t make us weak or dependent—it simply makes us human.

7) Ignoring physical wellbeing

Physical health plays a significant role in our social interactions.

When we ignore our physical wellbeing, it can limit our ability to engage in social activities, thereby leading to isolation.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular physical activity and a balanced diet, is essential as we age.

It keeps us energized, enhances our mood, and increases our capacity to engage in various activities.

From my perspective, financial prosperity and personal growth go hand in hand with physical health.

Investing time and resources into maintaining our physical wellbeing is as crucial as investing in our growth and financial security.

Ignoring physical wellbeing can lead to isolation, but by prioritizing it, we can enhance our social interactions, personal growth, and overall quality of life.

8) Neglecting lifelong learning

As we age, it’s easy to fall into the trap of believing we’ve learned all we need to know.

This mindset can lead to stagnation, lack of stimulation, and ultimately isolation.

I am a firm believer in the transformative power of lifelong learning.

It keeps our minds active and open to new ideas, fosters creativity, and provides opportunities for social interaction.

Whether it’s learning a new skill, exploring a new subject area, or simply indulging in reading or puzzles for mental stimulation, lifelong learning can significantly reduce the risk of isolation as we age.

9) Resisting change

Change is an inevitable part of life.

As we age, changes can become more frequent and significant—retirement, loss of loved ones, children leaving home.

Some people resist these changes due to fear or discomfort, which can lead to isolation.

Embracing change is essential for personal growth and resilience.

It allows us to adapt and evolve with life’s circumstances rather than resisting them.

Based on my belief system, I see obstacles and setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning.

By adopting this mindset, we can navigate through life’s changes with more ease and openness, reducing the risk of isolation as we age.

Understanding the underlying psychology

The intricate dance of our behaviors and preferences often intertwines deeply with our psychology.

One significant aspect is the relationship between our emotional intelligence and tendency towards isolation as we age.

Emotional intelligence, the ability to understand, use, and manage our own emotions in positive ways, plays a pivotal role in our interactions and relationships.

For those who become more isolated as they age, their level of emotional intelligence might be a key factor.

This intelligence could potentially shape their sense of contentment and happiness when they engage in solitary activities.

While solitude can bring peace and contentment, excessive isolation can have detrimental effects on our mental health and overall quality of life.

Recognizing these behaviors is the first step towards fostering more meaningful connections as we age, helping us thrive personally and professionally.

Feeling stuck in self-doubt?

Stop trying to fix yourself and start embracing who you are. Join the free 7-day self-discovery challenge and learn how to transform negative emotions into personal growth.

Join Free Now

Picture of Justin Brown

Justin Brown

Justin Brown is an entrepreneur and thought leader in personal development and digital media, with a foundation in education from The London School of Economics and The Australian National University. His deep insights are shared on his YouTube channel, JustinBrownVids, offering a rich blend of guidance on living a meaningful and purposeful life.

RECENT ARTICLES

TRENDING AROUND THE WEB

7 ways to politely get someone to leave your house when they just won’t go

7 ways to politely get someone to leave your house when they just won’t go

Global English Editing

People who blame the world for their problems often use these 8 toxic excuses

People who blame the world for their problems often use these 8 toxic excuses

Small Business Bonfire

7 habits of resilient people who bounce back stronger after setbacks, according to psychology

7 habits of resilient people who bounce back stronger after setbacks, according to psychology

Global English Editing

7 phrases a narcissist we use when backed into a corner

7 phrases a narcissist we use when backed into a corner

Global English Editing

If you really want to flourish in your 60s and beyond, say goodbye to these 7 self-sabotaging behaviors

If you really want to flourish in your 60s and beyond, say goodbye to these 7 self-sabotaging behaviors

Global English Editing

8 subtle things narcissists do to make you feel like you’re the problem

8 subtle things narcissists do to make you feel like you’re the problem

Global English Editing