Social isolation and loneliness are words that describe a level of social disconnection. Social isolation is a state marked by few and infrequent social contacts, and loneliness refers to a person’s distressing feeling of social isolation.

Social isolation occurs when people become disconnected from family, friends, and their community. It can lead to distressing health outcomes and even an increased risk of death. Research states that 1 in 5 Americans 65 and older are socially isolated. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, it was estimated that social isolation affected more than 8 million older adults. Social isolation is also a risk factor for mental and physical conditions including depression, dementia, heart disease, obesity and insomnia.

Not only does social isolation increase the risks of severe health conditions, but it also makes some conditions worse and increases cognitive decline. This can lead to an increased risk of falls, which are the second leading cause of accidental death in the U.S. and the main reason why older people lose their independence.

According to the American Psychiatric Association, social isolation can lead to neglect, and when seniors are neglected and unnoticed, they are more susceptible to abuse or being swindled by scammers.

At JanCare, our professional caregivers are trained to interact with the elderly to reduce social isolation by engaging with seniors at home. Our goal at JanCare is to have our seniors remain in their home and live a healthy lifestyle as they age. We understand and support our clients’ needs and lifestyles. In addition to assisting our clients with physical

needs, our caregivers will play cards, sing-along, read, listen to music, take walks with their client and provide that much-needed companionship.