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Loneliness is an epidemic with real public health consequences. Friends alone can’t solve it
Recent research indicates that loneliness and social isolation are risk factors for depression, impaired cognitive performance, dementia progression, compromised immune system, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, stroke and an overall increased mortality risk.
Being socially active in your 50s and 60s may help lower the risk of developing dementia in later life, a study has found.
Four surveys (by Cigna, AARP, the Kaiser Family Foundation and the University of Michigan) have examined the extent of loneliness and social isolation in older adults in the past year. And health insurers, health-care systems, senior housing operators and social service agencies are launching or expanding initiatives.
The Atlantic hosted a series of discussions on combating loneliness and social isolation. Speakers included former U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, AARP Foundation President Lisa Marsh Ryerson and Pew Research Center Social Trends Research Director Kim Parker. They addressed the causes and health impacts of the problem and offered a range of solutions.
Social Isolation and Loneliness in Older Adults Opportunities for the Health Care System
Even the most socially isolated individuals — those who have no or very few community connections — interact with the health care system.
This report details the meaningful role the health sector can play to help people overcome isolation along with recommendations to enhance that role.
In 2010, AARP conducted a national survey of U.S. adults age 45 and older to better understand loneliness among midlife and older adults. Since the survey’s release, the field has evolved and AARP Foundation’s focus has expanded to include social isolation.
