A new study confirms something that anecdotal observation has pointed to for many years. Social isolation and loneliness has a profoundly negative impact on our physical health.
This research comes from the American Heart Association. They found that those who experienced social isolation were 29 percent more likely to suffer from heart disease than the general population was. They were 32 percent more likely to suffer from a stroke, too. Additionally, they found that there may be other factors that led to isolation, such as depression.
The team published their findings in the Journal of the American Heart Association. Hopefully, now that there is a better understanding of the relationship between loneliness and heart health, doctors can begin to take more precise steps toward improving health in those that are at the highest risk. More research might be needed to help combat this, but we can all start taking steps toward preserving the health of those around us by helping to ensure that no one close to you is left lonely and in need.
But social disconnectedness is more prevalent than ever before thanks to the fallout from the pandemic and more people relying on social media for connectivity. Our family members are at a greater risk of being isolated now than they were even a few years ago. Taking steps to ensure that human companionship is a part of everyone’s life is important. It’s not always easy, but this research shows us that it can go a long way toward helping those that we love live healthier, happier lives.
This is just another reason why companionship is such an important part of senior care. While a lot of people look at this aspect of care as a secondary factor, companionship and social activity is actually far more important than that. It helps boost mental and emotional health, which makes a lot of sense. However, studies like this one are a reminder that social health also has a profound impact on physical health, too. These are important parts of how senior care might be able to provide more assistance for your family.
This will look differently from family to family. However, you know your family better than anyone else does. You know what steps will work better than any professional might. This expertise around how your family operates puts family members in a strange place. They know what is needed, but don’t always have the technical expertise to provide it on their own. Sometimes, a little bit extra help is needed from a professional caregiver to make this happen.
That’s where a professional can help. We’d love to talk more with you about how senior care might be able to help improve the quality of life that your family members experience. Socialization is an important component of care, but it’s only a small part of what we do. In-home care is uniquely designed to help in this area–and a whole lot more. So, if you’re interested in learning more about in-home care, or senior care in general, please feel free to reach out to one of our caregivers today.
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