COVID-19 has seen the most vulnerable members of society tucked away to try and keep them out of harm’s way.  New research from the University of Michigan explores the impact of this isolation on their mental wellbeing.

The survey found that 56% of people over the age of 50 felt isolated from others, which is roughly twice that reported in a similar poll from 2018.  Half of this vulnerable group also reported that they infrequently interacted with friends, neighbors, or family, with most doing so just once per week at most.

Technology was helping to alleviate some of this loneliness, with 59% reporting that they used social media to interact with others, and 31% using video chat at least once a week.  Similarly, there was also an increase in healthy behaviors, with 75% saying they were getting outdoors and 62% that they were exercising several times a week.  Importantly, however, those who experienced loneliness were less likely to engage in these healthy pastimes.

“As the pandemic continues, it will be critical to pay attention to how well we as a society support the social and emotional needs of older adults,” the researchers explain. “The intersection of loneliness and health still needs much study, but even as we gather new evidence, all of us can take time to reach out to older neighbors, friends and relatives in safe ways as they try to avoid the coronavirus.”

The research also found that as well as trying to exercise, 80% of those polled said they were trying to eat a healthy diet, with 81% saying they were getting enough sleep, both of which matched the results from the 2018 poll.

Loneliness epidemic

The sense of loneliness was a distinct worry, however, with loneliness especially prominent among those who were either unemployed or disabled.  What’s more, those who reported poor physical health also experienced challenges with their mental health, with a lack of companionship noticeable among this group.  Indeed, around 75% of this group said they felt isolated.

Sadly, among this group, technology was little assistance, with those who used video chat and social media reporting that they ended up feeling more isolated.  The researchers have developed a website that contains a tool for older adults to assess their level of isolation, with resources and opportunities in their area to address the problem.

“Past studies have shown that prolonged isolation has a profound negative effect on health and wellbeing — as much as smoking 15 cigarettes a day,” the researchers conclude. “It’s not surprising that older adults reported more loneliness since the pandemic began, particularly those who live alone. We need to continue finding ways to connect and engage with one another throughout this public health crisis.”