Surveyed seniors suggest ageism played part in pandemic mitigation strategies
By
Alicia Lasek
Aug 18, 2021
A large survey from Ireland sheds light not only on the challenges posed for older adults by the pandemic, but on their hopes, determination — and one of their biggest pet peeves. (Hint: it’s a...
Study unveils ‘silent epidemic’ of loneliness among older women during pandemic
By
Alicia Lasek
Feb 09, 2022
Data from the Women’s Health Initiative show that rates of loneliness in women aged 70 and older have increased during the pandemic, with 19% reporting severe troubles, investigators say.
Loneliness tied to higher death rates in cancer survivors
By
Kristen Fischer
Apr 30, 2024
Cancer survivors who felt lonelier or experienced more social isolation had a greater risk of dying compared to those who were more connected, a recent study finds.
Thanksgiving comfort: Phone calls, emails work best to reduce residents’ loneliness, boost spirits
By
Alicia Lasek
Nov 24, 2020
According to the Yale School of Public Health, regular phone calls or emails may provide the most solace for people living in long-term care facilities. This includes remote calls, and phone calls while...
Older adults’ mental health is resilient during pandemic, new study finds
By
Alicia Lasek
Jan 14, 2021
Older adults say that they are no worse off on some indicators of loneliness and overall mental health than they were five years ago, though general happiness has declined. Technology has been a coping...
Loneliness linked to Parkinson’s disease development, researchers say
By
Kristen Fischer
Oct 03, 2023
A new study has linked loneliness to an increased risk for being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. The link was seen across different demographic groups, and it also existed despite risk factors like...
Finding a purpose can lower risk of loneliness in older adults, study shows
By
C. Max Bachmann
Jun 29, 2023
Having a sense of purpose in life can offer “potent protection” against loneliness, which can be a health hazard for seniors, investigators say.
Report: Moderate, severe loneliness linked to higher chance for long-term care, home care
By
Kristen Fischer
Feb 28, 2024
Older adults who are moderately and severely lonely have a higher probability of shifting to a long-term care community or home care compared to those who aren’t lonely — and severely lonely women...
Lonely seniors may have shorter life, fewer healthy years than their peers: analysis
By
Alicia Lasek
Jul 08, 2021
At age 60, people who report being lonely can expect to live an average of three to five years less than their peers who say they are never lonely. Years of active daily life are shortened as well, investigators...
Loneliness, frailty linked to health problems in older adults
By
Kristen Fischer
Mar 04, 2024
Loneliness and frailty can be common among older people — and it can have a negative impact on their physical health, according to a review published on Feb. 29 in The Lancet Healthy Longevity.