The Face of Social Isolation
Seniors are most at risk.
What Is Social Isolation
Social isolation poses a significant risk to individual health and longevity. Loneliness and social isolation increase the risk of premature death by 26% and 29% respectively. In addition, poor or insufficient social connection is associated with an increased risk of disease, including a 29% increased risk of heart disease and a 32% increased risk of stroke.
Furthermore, it is associated with an increased risk for anxiety, depression, and dementia. Additionally, the lack of social connection may increase susceptibility to viruses and respiratory illness.
– Excerpt from “Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation: The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community”
Social Isolation is a Growing Epidemic For Seniors
Seniors are at continued risk based on their living situations, with many living alone, socially isolated, and experiencing crippling loneliness.
We’re Changing The Face Of Social Isolation In Seniors
For nearly 50 years, we have been combatting the physical and emotional effects of Social Isolation on Seniors in DuPage and Kane Counties. It is the essence of who we are.
We offer – and continue to add – services and programs directly addressing the growing needs of seniors including Home Delivered Meals (Meals On Wheels), Well-Being Checks, Pet Care & Food Assistance, Community Dining, and more.
Our services provide social interaction, human connection and help us meet the social and emotional needs of older adults as they age.
Learn More About Social Isolation In Seniors
Social isolation and loneliness in seniors have been linked to higher risks for health conditions. Seniors are at continued risk based on their living situations, with many living alone, socially isolated, and experiencing crippling loneliness. Learn more about how social isolation is an epidemic among seniors.
See how social isolation and loneliness affect a senior’s mental and emotional health including mental and emotional health consequences including cognitive function, depression, and anxiety, diminished social skills and even self-harm
Learn about how social support structures and resources help combat the cruel and life-debilitating phenomena adversely affecting physical and mental health outcomes related to social isolation.
Connecting With Seniors
“Paul calls more often than he should and talks longer than I’m sure he is suppose to, but I really appreciate it.”
“She (the volunteer) is fabulous! Is that a good enough word? How about wonderful, terrific, incredible. She calls me at the same day and the same time each week. I love it! I look forward to her calls. It is just such a wonderful service, thank you for providing it.”
“My calls are absolutely fantastic! I have such a great caller. She understands me and she seems to be able to know what goes on in my brain. Most people think that I’m not their cup of tea, but she doesn’t feel that way. She gets me. I can say that she is not just a friend, she is a good friend.”
“I’m 85 and she is 32. And she cooks and I cook. We talk about things we cook. We talk about travel. We both live alone, so we do have that in common. I really never imagined I’d have someone like this to talk to.”
Connect and Learn More About Social Isolation
We’ll keep you informed with resources, and information about social isolation in seniors.
©2023 DuPage Senior Citizens Council
DuPage Senior Citizens Council (DSCC) and Kane Senior Council (KSC) is a nonprofit charity designated as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) by the Internal Revenue Service.
Donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. EIN 36-2988023