Social Isolation

Social isolation refers to a state in which an individual has minimal contact or interaction with others, leading to a lack of social connections or supportive relationships. This isolation can be physical (living alone) or emotional (feeling disconnected despite being around people) and is especially prevalent among older adults.

Factors contributing to social isolation include mobility issues, health problems, loss of family and friends, and societal barriers. In gerontology, understanding and mitigating social isolation is essential, as it is linked to negative outcomes, such as increased risk of depression, cognitive decline, and overall poorer health in aging populations.