Stay Connected to Combat Loneliness and Social Isolation
As people age, they often find themselves spending more time at home alone. This can affect your health and wellbeing. Learn if you might be at risk and how to stay connected. Help spread the word about staying connected as you age.
Stay connected to combat loneliness and social isolation.
Feeling lonely and being isolated are bad for your health. Loneliness and social isolation are associated with higher rates of depression, a weakened immune system, heart disease, dementia, and early death.1
Are you at risk?
Try to stay active and better connected if you
- Live alone or can't leave your home
- Feel alone or disconnected from others
- Recently had a major loss
- Are a caregiver
- Lack a sense of purpose
Ideas for Staying Connected
- Find an activity that you enjoy, or learn something new. You might have fun and meet people with similar interests.
- Get moving! Exercise decreases stress, boosts your mood, and increases your energy.
- Volunteer. You'll feel better by helping others.
- Stay in touch with family, friends, and neighbors in person, online, or by phone.
- Consider adopting a pet. Animals can be a source of comfort and may also lower stress and blood pressure.
Reference
- Cacioppo, J.T., & Hawkley, L.C. (2009, August 31). Perceived social isolation and cognition. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 13(10), 447–454.
U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Institute on Aging (NIA). (n.d.). Stay connected to combat loneliness and social isolation [Infographic]. Retrieved September 8, 2022, from https://www.nia.nih.gov