EVERYTHING I DO IS ALL JUST TO WAIT FOR THE BEDTIME”, reported by a 78 year client.
Boredom in old age can be particularly challenging due to various factors such as retirement, physical limitations, and social isolation. It can significantly impact the quality of life and mental health of older adults.
The “tragedy of boredom” refers to the detrimental effects that prolonged or extreme boredom can have on an individual’s mental and emotional well-being. This concept suggests that boredom isn’t just a minor inconvenience but can lead to significant issues such as a meaningless life shaded with constant sadness, helplessness, hopelessness etc. Boredom at this age can manifest in two ways: Internalizing which involves becoming silent, passive and avoiding behaviours or engaging in excessive sleeping whereas Externalizing includes impulsive and harmful activities such as excessive drinking, substance abuse or other impulsive behaviours. Loss of purpose in life and lack of motivation reduces productivity which in turn leads to sense of worthlessness. Health issues and decreased mobility restricts their activities, shrink their social interactions thus often people withdraw from social groups resulting in loneliness and emotional distress. Boredom can exacerbate cognitive decline by reducing mental stimulation.  Thus their well-being is affected in wholistic manner.
“FOR THE WISE BODEDOM IS PLAY BUT FOR THE ORDINARY IT IS HELL”
Understanding the impact of boredom is crucial and to combat it’s important to encourage activities that provide mental, physical, and social stimulation through personal hobbies, social interactions, or seeking new challenges and experiences, and opt for voluntary services. Addressing boredom in old age is essential for maintaining a high quality of life and promoting overall well-being.