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Study explores impact of isolation for seniors

Seniors’ Planning Table
seniors

Have you ever pondered the plight of isolated seniors? Did you know that social isolation is as bad for you as smoking, alcohol consumption and obesity?

The Sunshine Coast Resource Centre’s Seniors’ Planning Table just completed a study of social isolation. Funded by the District of Sechelt, the report on Isolation in Canadian Older Adults outlines core aspects of isolation, how it differs from loneliness, and what can be done. The report explores the risks associated with isolation (physical and social), the impact of isolation on the physical and mental health of seniors, and the increased costs of isolation to the health care system. It also looks at the human cost to our community as a whole when an isolated person isn’t included and valued.

Transportation related issues were the most common reasons given for remaining at home. Some of the risk factors outlined in the National Seniors Council’s Report on the Social Isolation of Seniors 2013-14 were: lacking access to transportation, living alone, being age 80 or older, having compromised health, having no children or contact with family, living with low income, changing family structures, location of residence, experiencing critical life transitions (such as retirement, death of a spouse, or losing a driver’s licence), not knowing about or having access to community services and programs, and being a caregiver.

As well, mobility/physical barriers in the community, and access to health care all limit the social participation of seniors. In a nutshell, anyone can become socially isolated when challenges exceed personal resources and available support from friends, family and community.

Some activities have proven to have a positive effect in decreasing isolation. Thanks to the District of Sechelt and additional funding from the Town of Gibsons and the Sunshine Coast Regional District, the Seniors’ Planning Table looks forward to working further to make an impact on the issue of social isolation of seniors on the Sunshine Coast. Please take time to read the report at www.resourcecentre.ca and consider how you might make a difference. It takes each of us to make a difference for all of us!

The Seniors’ Planning Table is a program of the Sunshine Coast Resource Centre. It brings together the community, organizations and all levels of government to listen and respond to the needs of seniors on the Sunshine Coast.