Social Isolation Causes Health Effects for Seniors



Social isolation and loneliness are common problems among older adults, and are linked to several health conditions, such as depression and heart disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), social isolation is a lack of social connection, and loneliness is the feeling of being alone, regardless of the amount of social contact.1

Loneliness in seniors has been linked to a number of chronic health conditions. According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), social isolation & loneliness was associated with a 29 percent increased risk of heart disease and a risk of stroke increased by 32%.1 Research has shown that prolonged loneliness is associated with increased risk of premature death, similar to smoking, alcohol consumption, and obesity.2

Caring for a senior loved one can be both rewarding and challenging. Often, the most difficult part of caregiving is knowing a loved one receives the support they need. In-home care can be a great way to provide necessary support. Here are a few benefits our in-home caregivers can assist with:

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Sources:

  1. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Loneliness and Social Isolation Linked to Serious Health Conditions. Retrieved 2022/11/22. https://www.cdc.gov/aging/publications/features/lonely-older-adults.html
  2. Holt-Lunstad J, Smith TB, Baker M, Harris T, Stephenson D. Loneliness and social isolation as risk factors for mortality: a meta-analytic review. Perspectives on psychological science. 2015 Mar;10(2):227-37.
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