Social isolation is an objective state of having limited or no social connections. Social isolation can lead to loneliness which is the subjective feeling of being alone even when there are people nearby. Social isolation and loneliness are distinctly different concepts but are often linked together.
Social isolation has become a public health concern due to its negative impacts on older people’s health and wellbeing, especially when negative feelings such as loneliness occur. Social isolation and feelings of solitude are stressful events that can lead to generalised anxiety. [1] Social isolation can increase the risk of morbidity and mortality to a similar degree as smoking. [2] It results in poorer health (higher blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and inflammation) [3,4], poorer health behaviours (smoking and physical inactivity), poorer quality of life and wellbeing, and mental health conditions such as depression. [5]
Social isolation in Australia
In Australia, around 1 in 5 (19%) older Australians are socially isolated, with the highest rates occurring in the largest urban regions and sparsely populated states and territories. [6] Life changes increase the risk of people in this age group being socially isolated. These changes include physical changes and increasing medical concerns, reaching the retirement stage, and family and friends in their circle getting sick and dying, leading to decreased social connections.
Social isolation in aged care
Social isolation is a major concern among the older population living in their homes and residential aged care or long-term facilities. Several factors contribute to social isolation issues in aged care, including being in a facility located far from families and friends, or one which has no interactions with the community beyond its walls. Within the care home, social isolation can result from a shortage of aged care staff or differences between the social characteristics or physical health profiles of residents living within the facility. Residential care homes may offer limited opportunities for social engagement, leading to difficulties in building new relationships, especially for those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. [1,7]