HJNO Jan/Feb 2025

56 JAN / FEB 2025 I  HEALTHCARE JOURNAL OF NEW ORLEANS COLUMN  SENIOR HEALTH LONELINESS has become a growing concern in healthcare, particularly when it comes to older adults. In 2023, Vivek H. Murthy, MD, the 19th and 21st surgeon general of the United States, published an advisory on the healing effects of social connection and community. The advisory, “Our Epidemicof Loneliness and Isolation,” asserts that loneliness is a public health crisis that has significant implications for both individual and societal health. For healthcare professionals, understanding how loneliness impacts older adults, recognizing its warning signs, and adopting strategies for intervention are essential steps toward improving the health and quality of life for this vulnerable population. The scope of the problem Loneliness and social isolation are not just uncomfortable states of mind; they are linked to a range of physical, mental, and emotional health issues, particularly in older adults. According to the surgeon general’s advisory, approximately 1 in 2 adults aged 50 and older are affected by loneliness, with nearly 25% experiencing social isolation. Social isolation refers to a lack of social connections, while loneliness is the subjective feeling of being • Cognitive decline and dementia: Old- er adults who experience loneliness have a higher likelihood of developing cognitive impairment and dementia. The isolation and lack of mental stimu- lation can accelerate cognitive decline, while the psychological effects of lone- liness, such as depression and anxiety, further exacerbate the condition. • Mental health: Loneliness is a signifi- cant risk factor for depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. The lack of meaningful social connec- tions can trigger or worsen symptoms of mental illness. In elderly individuals, this can be compounded by the fear of becoming a burden to others or the societal stigma associated with mental health struggles. • Reduced immune function: Loneli- ness has been shown to weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and ill- nesses. This is particularly concerning for older adults, whose immune sys- tems naturally weaken with age. • Increased mortality risk: The most alarming consequence of chronic loneliness is its association with a higher risk of early death. Research has shown that loneliness can be as detri- mental to health as smoking 15 ciga- rettes a day, emphasizing the serious- ness of the issue. disconnected, even when surrounded by others. Older adults are particularly vulnerable to loneliness for several reasons. Many experience life transitions such as retirement or the death of a spouse. These transitions can reduce social interaction and increase feelings of isolation. Moreover, physical health problems, mobility issues, and the loss of close family and friends can exacerbate feelings of loneliness, leaving older adults feeling even more disconnected from society. The health implications of loneliness The impact of loneliness on health cannot be overstated. Research has consistently shown that loneliness and social isolation are associated with a higher risk of several serious health conditions. The surgeon general’s advisory highlights the following health risks linked to loneliness: • Cardiovascular disease: Loneliness is linked to increased blood pressure, higher levels of stress, and an increased risk of heart disease. The prolonged stress that often accompanies loneli- ness can contribute to inflammation in the body, which is a known risk factor for cardiovascular problems. Loneliness and Its Impact on Older Adults: A GROWING HEALTHCARE CONCERN