The importance of social connection

Social connection is important for our overall health. It buffers against stress, improves physical and mental health, increases longevity, and enhances resilience during life’s challenges. It also provides emotional comfort, practical help, and a sense of belonging, which reduces anxiety, depression, and mortality risks.

Social isolation and loneliness have become an epidemic in the U.S. due to decreased face-to-face interactions, increased time spent alone, and decreased community participation. According to the National Institute on Aging, social isolation and loneliness are associated with higher risks of:

• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Obesity
• Weakened immune function
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Cognitive decline
• Dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease
• Death

Older adults are at higher risk for social isolation and loneliness due to changes in health and social connections that can come with growing older, hearing, vision, and memory loss, disability, trouble getting around, and/or the loss of family and friends. Social isolation affects one in four adults age 65 and older.

It is important to stay active and connect with others. It helps keep your brain active and can create a sense of purpose. Get started by finding an activity you enjoy, taking a class, or restarting an old hobby. This will help you meet new people and connect with those with similar interests. Volunteering or engaging in regular social activities through a community organization, playing cards with friends, or scheduling regular video calls with friends and family are a few ways to stay connected. Click here for more ideas.  

Sources: 

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/loneliness-and-social-isolation/loneliness-and-social-isolation-tips-staying-connected

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK585650/

https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory.pdf