Social Isolation: The COVID-19 Pandemic’s Hidden Health Risk for Older Adults, and How to Manage It

Social isolation is now viewed as risk factor for premature death, similar to cigarette smoking, physical inactivity, or obesity

Social distancing guidelines have left many seniors vulnerable to social isolation. It is important that older adults take meaningful steps to maintain social connection. Lucigerma/Shutterstock

As COVID-19 cases rise again, it can be hard for older adults to see any end to the need for social isolation and the loneliness that can accompany it.

For months now, they have been following public health advice to reduce their risk of exposure by staying home, knowing an infection can have life-threatening complications. But sheltering at home has also meant staying distant from family, friends, and the places that kept them active and engaged.