Isolated Boise Seniors and Health Risks
Companionship for Isolated Boise Seniors
Recent studies show one in five older adults are socially isolated from family or friends, increasing their risks for poor mental and physical health, as well as higher rates of mortality.
Researchers investigated several factors impacting social isolation from family and friends within a national sample of more than 1,300 older African-Americans, black Caribbeans, and whites. Study participants were 55 and older.
Overall, most elderly were connected to both family and friends (77 percent), while 11 percent were isolated from friends only, and 7 percent were isolated from family members only.
Of concern, however, were the 5 percent of elderly who were socially isolated from both family and friends, which may place them at risk for physical and mental health problems, researchers say.
Men were more likely than women to be socially isolated. Women’s lifelong investments in family and friend networks, often through their social roles as caregivers to others, suggest that they may be less likely to experience social isolation as they age. African-American, black Caribbean, and white older adults reported similar levels of social isolation from family and friends.
At BrightStar Care of Boise, our senior companion care services focus on improving the health and well-being of Boise seniors so they can get the most out of life. We strive to get to know our clients’ unique histories and personalities so we can plan activities that will be both stimulating and enjoyable.
BrightStar Care of Boise provides many levels of companionship for seniors to help achieve a quality of life they need. Learn about the companion care services we provide - CLICK HERE.