What are the health effects of loneliness and social isolation in older adults?
Loneliness isn’t just a bad feeling. It’s a risk factor for your mental and physical health. Being socially isolated — physically alone — may lead to feelings of loneliness. Loneliness and social isolation could lead to:
Mental health concerns
Feeling lonely or disconnected may contribute to mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. It may also change the way you view the world, leading to feelings of anger, sadness, mistrust and a decreased sense of self-worth.1
Physical health challenges
Loneliness and social isolation have been shown to raise the risk of health conditions like heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, obesity and more. The stress of emotional pain may also weaken your immune system, cause inflammation and raise your risk of developing chronic disease. People who feel lonely are also less likely to get enough physical activity or quality sleep.1
What contributes to social isolation and loneliness in older adults?
There are many reasons why people might become socially isolated or lonely as they age. More than a quarter of adults over 65 are socially isolated and report feelings of loneliness.2 Here are a few factors that may contribute to loneliness.
Life changes
Big life transitions like losing a loved one, retiring or moving away often lead to fewer social interactions and may make it challenging to build new connections.3 Making a plan to stay in touch with work colleagues, friends and family members, or joining a support group or other community activity, can open doors to new social connections.
Hearing or vision loss
If you have difficulty hearing or seeing well, it may become harder to engage with friends and family, navigate public spaces or do everyday activities, which may lead to social withdrawal, increased feelings of loneliness and even depression.3 Addressing hearing or vision loss early can help improve your quality of life and keep up strong social connections.
Mobility or transportation challenges
Having a physical disability that limits your mobility, or not having access to reliable transportation, may make it difficult to leave your home and engage with others. As a UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage member, you may have access to resources, including transportation benefits, that can help keep you socially connected.
Other health concerns
Chronic health conditions like incontinence may affect your confidence and social life. If your symptoms or health concerns make it hard to go to social events or enjoy daily activities, talk to your provider. They may have ideas to help you manage your health conditions and feel more social.
How can older adults prevent social isolation?
Building and maintaining relationships can help your mental and physical well-being. Here are some ways to help you feel less lonely and stay connected to your friends, family and community.