Social Isolation
Date: 01/13/26
Connection Matters: How to Help Older Adults Feel Less Alone
What do heart disease, depression and memory loss have in common? They can all be linked to loneliness.
Loneliness and social isolation can hurt our health. Everyone needs friends, family, and social time to stay healthy. As people get older, they may see loved ones less often. They may also face health problems that make it harder to get out or stay connected.
Older adults who feel lonely may spend more time in the hospital, return to the hospital more often, or even die sooner than those who feel supported.
Loneliness vs. Social Isolation: What’s the Difference?
Loneliness and social isolation are related, but they are not the same.
Loneliness is the feeling of being alone.
Social isolation means having little or no contact with other people.
You can live alone and still feel connected. You can also live with others and still feel lonely.
Older adults may feel lonely or socially isolated because they:
Live far from family
Have trouble hearing, seeing, or remembering
Lose friends over time
Face language barriers
Have trouble getting around or lack transportation
If you or someone you know feels lonely or isolated, it’s important to reach out and stay connected.
Why Getting Help Matters
Being alone for too long can harm your health. Social isolation can lead to stress, sadness and depression. It may also cause people to:
Exercise less
Sleep poorly
Smoke or drink too much
These factors can further increase the risk of serious health problems. Emotional pain can also activate the same stress response in the body as physical pain. If you are stressed for a long time, it can make it easier for you to get sick, like catching a cold.
Social isolation and loneliness can also affect brain health. People who feel lonely may have trouble thinking clearly and may have a higher risk of dementia.
Finding Help and Support
If you feel lonely or isolated, talk to a health care professional. Be honest about how you feel and what is going on in your life.
Events like losing a loved one or going through a divorce can deeply affect both your emotional and physical health. Your doctor may suggest counseling or other support to help you feel better.
If you were recently in the hospital, you may need help while you recover. Local or county programs can help you find care and support in your community.
Take Action Today
Loneliness is not something to ignore. A simple phone call, text, or visit can make a big difference in your mental or physical health. If you feel isolated—or know someone who does—reach out today. Together, we can help older adults feel seen, supported, and connected.