Addressing the Epidemic of Senior Isolation: A Narrative Review

Loneliness, a feeling of being alone or abandoned, is often associated with old age. The elderly can feel lonely for various reasons. It is not just the number of relationships, but also the quality of these social ties, that influence loneliness. Being close with companions and family members is essential for the elderly. Additional factors, such as being female, having a low socioeconomic status, or being institutionalized can raise loneliness among the elderly. Loneliness can have a noteworthy influence on the well-being of the elderly, leading to depression and even death. There are several existing interventions to tackle loneliness, but their significance is minimal. This article aims to raise awareness of the epidemic called senior isolation.