Recent research has shown that isolated seniors do not live as long and are more likely to develop long-term diseases compared to their more social counterparts.

• Stay in regular communication with them
• Consider meaningful ways to fill their time
• Isolated seniors are more vulnerable to financial scams and elder abuse, especially when family relationships are poor
• Despite common misconceptions, older adults who are married or who live with a partner are as likely to report isolated feelings as those who are not
• Couples often experience a change in their social lives as their children become busy with young families and their friends move or pass away

Strengthening social support can act as a key protector against maltreatment by the elderly. Practicing self-care, taking awareness for a few minutes, seeking support, and hiring respite home care can all help family caregivers get the rest and the social connection they need.

Seniors who are isolated tend to need longer-term care. With the toll that loneliness can play on physical and mental decline, older adults with fewer social contact require longer-term care. Professional care can be an important piece in the puzzle when it comes to reducing social isolation.