The Impact of Social Isolation on Older Adults

Social isolation is a serious problem affecting older adults. In fact, around 7.7 million American seniors are socially isolated. The biggest risk factors for social isolation include being divorced, living below the poverty line, and having a disability or limited mobility. A provider of home care in Ventura County, California can help prevent social isolation and its effects.

As a provider of non-medical services in Reseda, California, we will discuss the impact of social isolation on the elderly:

• Physical Illness
  Social isolation in seniors is linked to several chronic health conditions. Seniors who are socially isolated and without a home care provider have an increased risk of heart disease and hypertension. A socially isolated lifestyle can make seniors more prone to being sedentary which can make it difficult to maintain a healthy weight resulting.
• Cognitive Decline
  Spending time with loved ones is an effective way to reduce or prevent cognitive decline. Daily conversations and consistent socialization with neighbors, friends, or family members challenge our language reception, memory, focus, and other cognitive skills. Without regular interaction, seniors are at risk of developing dementia and other cognitive health problems.
• Increased Mortality Risk
  Social isolation can increase the risk of mortality which is likely caused by its physical and cognitive health effects. Seniors with an increased risk of conditions like heart disease or dementia are more likely to have a shortened lifespan. Moreover, seniors who are isolated may not receive medical attention as easily as those who have regular contact with other people.

Fountain Homecare Services LLC is a leading provider of high-quality healthcare staffing services in Los Angeles, California. Our range of services includes medical monitoring, personal care, homemaking, and more. Contact us today to arrange our services for a loved one.