Social connection is critical to the health and well-being of older adults.  And yet, one in every six older Americans feels isolated, with more than half of them being chronically lonely.  The health impact of social isolation is as significant as high blood pressure, obesity, and lack of exercise, resulting in as much as a 50% increase in early mortality, equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.  Groups of older people at particular risk for social isolation include those who are unmarried, live alone, lack a reliable source of transportation, have limited English proficiency, care for disabled family members, or lack information about or access to available community resources.

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While there is limited awareness of the extent of this problem, there are model programs and effective solutions that can ameliorate social isolation.  Part-time employment and volunteer roles help older adults stay active, remain socially engaged, feel needed, and have a sense of meaning in their lives.  Telephone and online interventions can be just as effective as in-person contact for reducing loneliness.  Group support programs enhance problem-solving skills, decrease stress, increase knowledge about available services and improve social and psychological well-being.

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If we can make community social programs more available, more accessible, more appropriate (e.g., culturally relevant) and more welcoming, we can help foster social connections for older adults, reduce social isolation and improve the quality-of-life of our community's most detached and vulnerable elders.