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isolation

The loneliness epidemic

If you feel lonely, you are not alone. Media outlets from around the world continue to report on the 'loneliness epidemic' as a major risk to optimal health.  Mounting research evidence confirms that social connections are a fundamental human need - crucial to both wellbeing and survival. Loneliness and social isolation are linked to depression, cognitive decline, decreased mobility and early death.  Many people feel lonely and lose social connections as they age. Read our resources on this topic, including evidence-based insights and tips around the importance of social engagement.

Featured Resources

  1. Blog Post: Social isolation: what is it and why is it important to your health?
  2. Blog Post: Loneliness hurts. How to recognize loneliness as a health concern.
  3. Blog Post: Congratulations, you’ve finally reached retirement…now what?
  4. Blog Post: Combat loneliness and depression by sharing memories: Relive those glory days!
  5. Blog Post: Want to be come more physically active? Start by joining a walking group
  6. Web Resource Rating: Social isolation: How to help patients be less lonely
  7. Evidence Summary: Reminiscence therapy can reduce social isolation and depression in people living in urban residential aged-care facilities

  8. Evidence Summary: Meaningful social roles may improve health and well-being for people in retirement

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DISCLAIMER: These summaries are provided for informational purposes only. They are not a substitute for professional medical advice. The summaries may be reproduced for non-profit educational purposes. Any other use must be approved by the McMaster Optimal Aging Portal (info@mcmasteroptimalaging.org).