Family and friends perspectives on communication barriers and patient social isolation in Canadian hospitals

BACKGROUND: Hospitalization can disrupt patients' communication and social connections, potentially contributing to social isolation, while the supportive role of family and friends in communication is often underrecognized. OBJECTIVE: This study examines communication access barriers and their association with social isolation among hospitalized patients, based on reports from family and friends. METHODS: A cross-sectional online survey of family/friends across Canada (N = 179) was conducted to examine patient communication and social isolation. The questionnaire was distributed via Facebook advertisements (Meta Ads Manager) and administered through SurveyMonkey (February 14-28, 2025). Descriptive and inferential analyses were conducted. RESULTS: Most respondents (Family and Friends) were female (78.8%) and were aged 40-49 years. Respondents reported that in-person communication was preferred (67.9%), and 58.5% shared communication responsibilities with patients and hospital staff. However, only 11.2% reported consistent staff communication support, and 5.9% reported reliable device access. Key barriers included lack of independent access to devices (23.5%), poor Wi-Fi (17.5%), and privacy concerns (16.1%). Fewer believed that communication challenges were prioritized equally with physical care (19.1%). Communication gaps were associated with social isolation. Inadequate support increased reported social isolation (odds ratio [OR] = 4.03, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.83-8.85), and patients whose communication concerns were not prioritized had greater odds of feeling social isolation (OR = 3.49, 95% CI: 1.12-10.83). CONCLUSIONS: Based on family and friends' reports, communication barriers in hospitals are common, despite patients having active social networks. Limited staff support, challenges with independent device use, and Wi-Fi issues highlight modifiable gaps in hospital communication infrastructure.