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Loneliness and Social Isolation: Unveiling Growing Public Health Concerns in Our Ageing Society

Tasha Warnock

Loneliness and social isolation have emerged as pressing public health concerns in our ageing society. While these feelings can affect individuals at any stage of life, their impact becomes especially profound as we grow older. In this blog post, we will shed light on the alarming statistics surrounding these issues, revealing that nearly half of individuals aged over 60 are at risk of social isolation, and one-third will experience some degree of loneliness in their later years. Understanding the scope of these challenges is crucial for initiating conversations, fostering awareness, and developing strategies to combat the adverse effects of loneliness and isolation on our ageing population.


The ageing of our population is unveiling a complex web of challenges, with loneliness and social isolation at the forefront. These experiences are not merely emotional states; they have far-reaching implications for physical, mental, and emotional well-being. As we age, our social networks may shrink due to factors such as retirement, loss of loved ones, and mobility limitations. Consequently, feelings of loneliness and the risk of social isolation become more prevalent and impactful.


Statistics paint a concerning picture of the prevalence of loneliness and social isolation among older adults. Shockingly, around 50% of individuals aged over 60 are at risk of social isolation, underscoring the scale of the issue. Moreover, approximately one-third of older adults will experience varying degrees of loneliness as they advance in age. These statistics highlight the urgent need for interventions that promote social connectedness, mental well-being, and overall quality of life for our ageing population.


Several factors contribute to the heightened vulnerability of older adults to loneliness and social isolation. Retirement often leads to a significant reduction in daily interactions, potentially leaving individuals without the routine engagement provided by work. Bereavement, the loss of lifelong partners and friends, further compounds these feelings. Health issues and limited mobility can restrict older adults' ability to engage in social activities, exacerbating their risk of becoming isolated. Recognizing these factors is crucial in designing effective interventions.


Preventing and mitigating the impact of loneliness and social isolation on older adults requires a multi-faceted approach. Encouraging seniors to participate in community activities, volunteering, or joining clubs can provide them with opportunities for meaningful interactions. Leveraging technology to stay connected with family and friends, even virtually, can bridge physical distances. Daily Check In can be one of those bridges to help prevent and mitigate loneliness and social isolation as well as providing peace of mind for loved ones.

At Daily Check-in Calls LLC our main focus is wellness checks and we would be glad to discuss the critical role that can provide for you or someone in you love.


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