An older adult may have a doctor and still go days without a meaningful conversation. A person who no longer drives may lose contact with friends, worship, shopping, and community life. These are health concerns as well as social concerns.
A 2020 National Academies report reviewed research on social isolation and loneliness in older adults. The expert committee found strong evidence that poor social connection is linked with worse health outcomes. It recommended that health systems pay closer attention to the issue and connect patients with community resources.
Organizing can help a community build those resources. Older residents can identify barriers to transportation, safe walking, public space, and local activities. Neighbors, libraries, faith groups, clinics, and service providers can create regular ways for people to connect and ask for help.
The report finds links between isolation and health. It also explains that more research is needed on which interventions work best for different people. A friendly visit program may help one person while another needs transportation, hearing support, or treatment for depression.
Funders interested in aging, caregiving, health, or community life can support resident-led planning and local connection. The best grants allow older adults to help design the response and include a way to learn who participates, who is still missed, and what changes over time.