Social isolation refers to the lack of social contact with others, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and disconnection from the world around us. Social isolation can be challenging, especially for older adults, as they may have limited opportunities to interact with others due to physical or cognitive limitations, health conditions, or mobility issues. This can lead to a decline in mental and physical health, as social connections are important for overall well-being.

Particularly in the UK, social isolation is a growing concern, especially among older adults. According to Age UK, more than 1 million older adults in the UK go for over a month without speaking to anyone.

What Causes Social Isolation in Older Adults?

Social isolation is a significant issue among the elderly, particularly in urban areas. There are several causes of social isolation in older adults. Some of these causes include:

• Loss of a spouse or partner: The loss of a spouse or life partner can leave adults feeling lonely and disconnected from the world around them in their old age. According to Age UK, around 3.9 million older people in the UK live alone, and 2 million of them feel ignored or invisible.
• Physical or mental health problems: Physical or mental health problems can limit an individual's ability to participate in social activities, leading to social isolation. According to Alzheimer's Society in the UK, 38% of people with dementia said that they had lost friends after their diagnosis. 
• Lack of socialisation opportunities: Some older adults experience reduced participation in hobbies and interests, and declining invitations to social gatherings or sometimes they withdraw from social activities and events themselves. They may also have few friends or acquaintances, and spend a lot of time alone. All this can lead to social isolation.
• Mobility issues: Mobility issues can limit an individual's ability to leave their home and participate in social activities, leading to social isolation. 
• Lack of transportation: Lack of safe transportation that is suitable for elderly can prevent individuals from participating in social activities outside of their homes, leading to social isolation. According to a report by Independent Age, nearly one million people over the age of 65 feel trapped in their homes because of a lack of transportation.
• Changing social roles: As people age, they may experience changes in their social roles, such as not being not leading a household after retirement or the loss of a family member. The social importance decreases and dependence on others increases. These changes can lead to a loss of identity and a sense of purpose, which can contribute to social isolation.

Effects of social isolation on the elderly

Research has shown that social isolation can have a significant impact on the health and well-being of older adults. According to Age UK, socially isolated individuals are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. Here are some of the effects of social isolation on the elderly:

• Physical Health Issues: Social isolation can lead to physical health issues such as hypertension, heart disease, stroke, and even death. According to research, socially isolated older adults are at a higher risk of mortality than those who are not socially isolated. This is because they may not have the social support necessary to take care of their health or may be less likely to seek medical attention when they need it.
• Mental Health Issues: Social isolation can also lead to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. Elderly people who are socially isolated may feel lonely, helpless, and disconnected from the world around them. This can contribute to the development of depression and anxiety disorders, which can further impact their overall health.
• Reduced Cognitive Function: Social isolation can also lead to a decline in cognitive function, making it harder for older adults to think clearly, remember things, and make decisions. Research has found that social isolation is associated with an increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
• Increased Risk of Elder Abuse: Elderly people who are socially isolated are at a higher risk of being abused, neglected, or exploited. This is because they may be more vulnerable and less likely to report abuse or mistreatment due to a lack of social support.
• Decreased Quality of Life: Social isolation can significantly impact the quality of life of older adults. It can lead to feelings of loneliness, boredom, and a lack of purpose or meaning in life. This can contribute to a decline in overall well-being and may lead to further health issues.

How to deal with Social Isolation in Older Adults?

There are several ways to address social isolation in older adults, such as -

• Encouraging them to participate in social activities
• Interactions with friends and family
• Connecting them with support groups or communities
• Encouraging hobbies and interests

Learn about more ways to Reduce Social Isolation in Elderly.

Additionally, technology can be an excellent tool for connecting with others, and there are many resources available to help older adults learn how to use technology effectively. 

PCL Connect tablet, which is designed specifically for older adults and their caregivers can be a suitable tool here. The PCL Connect tablet is a connected care tablet that is designed to help older adults stay connected with their loved ones and manage their health and wellness. It features a digital photo album, medicine reminders, vitals monitoring and a caregiver app, creating a connected care ecosystem for families.

Conclusion

It is important to be aware of the causes and effects of social isolation on older adults and to help them find ways to stay connected and engaged with their communities. Encouraging social activities, providing information on community resources, and discussing ways to maintain social connections can all help to mitigate the negative effects of social isolation. By addressing the causes of social isolation and taking steps to stay connected, older adults can improve their health and well-being and enjoy a better quality of life.