Did you Know? Social Isolation in Older Adults

Did you know that nearly a quarter of adults over 65 are considered socially isolated?  Social isolation can increase the risk of developing a variety of negative health issues, including heart problems, dementia, and even premature death.

A new report from the National Academies documents the negative consequences of social isolation in older adults and recommends ways for the healthcare system to address loneliness and its effects.  The report notes that "Health care professionals also need to learn how to work with community partners to develop, implement, and evaluate programs for preventing or mitigating social isolation and loneliness in older adults."

SASH is one such community-based program that works with the healthcare system and directly combats social isolation for seniors through one-on-one outreach, group programming, and myriad other small ways that can make a big difference, like help arranging a ride.  ACCT's SASH program at Armory Lane not only provides on-site opportunities for social engagement such as twice-weekly senior meals, group bone builders classes, and more, the SASH Coordinator also meets with residents and community participants in their homes, just to check in on how people are doing.  A simple conversation can have a positive effect on how connected someone feels to their community, and this in turn can lead to better health. SASH is a great example of how ACCT is committed to resident success, because we know that home is more than just four walls and a roof.