Social Isolation: Focus on the Elderly at the Time of Covid-19

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Social Isolation & the Elderly at the time of the Covid-19 Pandemic
by Xenia Jones 19.07.2020

The Problem of Social Isolation in a Connected World

In a world that is increasingly connected, the idea that people are socially isolated seems counter to digital connectivity. This however is a reality, according to (Allen, 2018) who declared that while digital technology has changed the way we live by making everything far more efficient, "technology has been largely ineffective in meeting the needs of those feeling lonely. In fact, it may be adding to the problem." Allen, a health sciences researcher at the University of Southampton in England further declares that (Allen, 2018), "While we desire human contact, digital alternatives are often cheaper than everyday acquaintances. This has resulted in more and more aspects of our lives becoming digital by default, which has subsequently reduced our opportunities for everyday social contact." He argues that the efficiency of the digital has reduced social contact that facilitates the creation of bonds, leading to increasing feelings of isolation, of loneliness.

Definition & Explanation

What is social isolation? According to the advocacy group No Isolation (No Isolation, 2017), "Social isolation describes the absence of social contact and can lead to loneliness. It is a state of being cut off from normal social networks, which can be triggered by factors such as loss of mobility, unemployment, or health issues. Isolation can involve staying at home for lengthy periods of time, having no access to services or community involvement, and little or no communication with friends, family, and acquaintances." While not all instances of isolation or those isolated would feel lonely and experience the emotional and psychological brunt of it, those who do are subjected to certain risks that include premature death according to a research ...