Isolation / Loneliness

We have known for a long time that social isolation and loneliness in older adults are at epidemic proportions in our country and can take a significant toll on the physical and mental health of seniors. (For a deeper analysis on this, take a look at the highly-praised new book…

Given our individual circumstances, each of our situations has been unique as we quarantine during this pandemic. For some, that may mean sitting on the front porch or spending time in the backyard, with a lawn or long walks to keep ourselves sane. But for many, especially those quarantining alone,…

It’s no secret that social isolation can take an enormous toll on older adults. And in a twist of irony, it seems clear that cutting off social and physical connections, as we are doing during the coronavirus outbreak, makes it harder for people to fight off infection, among other detrimental…

It’s hard enough facing some of the challenges of getting older. Now imagine facing those challenges without loved ones or supportive family members to offer a helping hand. For millions of Americans, they don’t have to imagine, because that’s their reality. According to the Merck Manual, 30% of the 46…

It’s no mystery that loneliness and social isolation can accompany aging. Previous posts in agebuzz have noted the value of friendships and even pets to help older adults battle the loneliness and isolation that can arise if your social contacts are few, your senses are diminished, your mobility is limited…

If you’re lucky, you may have one or two decades-long friendships (known in today’s world as BFFs, or Best Friends Forever) in your life. But as we age, few of us maintain a large group of friends. For most, having a small circle of friends is enough to make you…