The Centre of Excellence for Public Health at Queen’s University in Northern Ireland reviewed social isolation interventions in 33 studies conducted in 21 countries, and concluded that tailored approaches are needed to address loneliness and social isolation. Two international literature reviews recently completed in the United Kingdom and in Finland included findings from studies in 23 countries across five continents. Ī growing body of evidence indicates that social isolation and loneliness are impacting health and health outcomes around the world. Social isolation, a more objective measure, has been alternatively defined as the “state of having few social relationships or infrequent social contact with others” or the “pervasive lack of social contact or communication, participation in social activities or having a confidant” among others. The purpose of this chapter is to urge policy makers and health professionals to prioritize policies, programs, and support for social connectedness as an antidote to turn the tide on the widespread impact of social isolation on the health of older adults.Īlthough definitions vary, loneliness is most often described as a subjective term referring to the discrepancy between the quantity and quality of relationships that one has and what they desire. ![]() Recommendations for policies, programs, and other actions addressing social isolation as a determinant of healthy aging by supporting community and individual social connectedness are highlighted using case examples from the western region of North Carolina. Opportunities for increasing social connectedness of older adults and others who are isolated must be prioritized to decrease the impact of social isolation and loneliness on mental and physical health. Safety efforts due to the COVID-19 pandemic have increased social isolation, highlighted the digital divide for older adults and rural communities, and have exacerbated related health concerns especially among older adults. ![]() Social isolation and loneliness are critical social drivers of health and need to be recognized as such.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |