As I’ve observed from some of my own family members, many seniors can easily become socially isolated from others and from the community. This can be due to: declining health, life transitions, ageism in society and lack of access to transportation / services. Risk of loneliness also increases if you don’t have a spouse or partner, socialize with others infrequently, have few friends (some who may have passed away) and if you have strained family relationships.
Loneliness is not the same as being socially isolated or alone. Some people live relatively solitary lives and are rarely lonely while others with an active social life often feel lonely. How much do you know about isolation and older adults? Take this quiz.
Fortunately, many web sites, articles and other resources are addressing this issue, some which are highlighted below:
- Connect2Affect
- Fighting Social Isolation: A View from the Trenches
- Loneliness: A Growing Health Threat for Older Adults
- Loneliness May be a Bigger Threat than Smoking or Obesity
- Social Connectedness and Engagement Technology Online Tool
Tip – many older people don’t just want to socialize with other older people. This newly released survey and report by Generations United and the Eisner Foundation demonstrates how generations can learn from each other – and why age segregation makes that difficult.
Also, Fighting Social Isolation: A View from the Trenches, reviews lessons learned from Older Adults Technology Services‘ efforts to help seniors to feel more connected.
Do you know of an older person who could use some company or encouragement to interact with others? If so, start there.
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