Neglected Loneliness Persists in Elderly Population
The surgeon general's dire warning about America's escalating loneliness and isolation crises, issued two years ago, has been met with a disappointing lack of response. Despite the urgent need for action, especially among older adults, little progress has been made to combat this public health concern.
In 2023, the surgeon general called attention to a growing epidemic of loneliness that has been compared to the health risks associated with smoking fifteen cigarettes a day[1]. Due to factors such as the loss of friends, family, and mobility challenges, older Americans are particularly susceptible to the harmful effects of loneliness, which can lead to heart disease, stroke, dementia, depression, and early death[1][2].
The surgeon general's advisory outlined various strategies to combat social isolation, including the establishment of community spaces, neighborhood programs, and ensuring that healthcare providers address social connections during check-ups[1]. However, two years later, there is still no significant national effort to tackle this issue head-on. Limited funding and a lack of urgency continue to hinder meaningful progress.
Local organizations and groups are trying to help, but they are often stretched thin, leaving many older Americans still sitting alone in their homes, day after day, with little to no social interaction[1]. Dor Skuler, CEO and Co-Founder of Intuition Robotics, which produces the award-winning AI companion robot ElliQ, emphasized the need for a concerted effort to address this problem[1]. "It's increasingly frustrating to see such high awareness of the health risks and rising costs linked to loneliness and social isolation," he stated, "yet there remains a lack of urgency and no structured effort to truly address the issue."
Loneliness is more than just feeling sad and bored. It takes a toll on both the mind and body, with effects that can be as harmful as smoking daily[1]. As we enter Older Americans Month, it is time to revisit the surgeon general's warning and redouble our efforts to ensure that older adults receive the support they need to live healthy, socially engaged lives[3].
References:[1] U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory 2023: Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation[2] Social isolation, loneliness in older people pose health risks[3] The Link Between Loneliness and Chronic Illness[4] Moyer, V. R. (2019, April 8). Loneliness and Isolation in Older Adults: Implications for Public Health and Public Policy. Journal of Public Health Management and Practice, 25(2), 131-134. doi:10.1097/PHH.0000000000001047[5] Lifeworks NW. (n.d.). What Are the Four Pillars of Mental Health? Retrieved May 21, 2023, from https://www.lifeworks.com/insights/what-are-the-four-pillars-of-mental-health/
Loneliness, a health concern comparable to smoking daily, is significantly detrimental to the mental and physical well-being of older adults, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, dementia, depression, and early death. Therefore, it is crucial for national efforts to focus on addressing social isolation among older adults, strengthening the pillars of mental health and overall wellness in this age group.
