Social Isolation
What does social isolation in later life mean for a person? Studies suggest that it could mean early death. This module will provide an overview of the issues related to social isolation. Diverse negative health effects of social isolation will be discussed in detail. As an example of measuring social isolation, the Lubben Social Network Scale will be introduced, with its utility for research and practical applications. The speakers will also identify public policy and practice implications to address issues of social isolation.
Isolation Kills!
Featuring Dr. James Lubben, the Louise McMahon Ahearn Chair in Social Work at Boston College, Director of the Institute on Aging.
Identifying Social Isolation Using the LSNS
Featuring Dr. James Lubben, the Louise McMahon Ahearn Chair in Social Work at Boston College, Director of the Institute on Aging.
How to Measure Social Isolation
Featuring Dr. James Lubben, the Louise McMahon Ahearn Chair in Social Work at Boston College, Director of the Institute on Aging.
A Practitioner's Perspective of Social Isolation
Featuring Carrie Johnson, Assistant Director of the Hartford Center of Excellence (COE) in Geriatric Social Work.
Further Resources:
- AASWSW Grand Challenges for Social Work: Eradicate Social Isolation
- Lubben Social Network Scale
- Social Isolation: Effects and Solutions (AARP Foundation)
- Framework for Isolation in Adults Over 50
- Making Meaningful Connections: A Profile of Social Isolation among Older Adults in Small Town & Small City, British Columbia
- Selected List of References
- Campaign to End Loneliness
Relevant Media:
- Your relationships are just as important to your health as diet and exercise
- Health Aging: Preventing Isolation
- Isolation seen as critical social problem
- Researchers confront an epidemic of loneliness
Additional BC Talks Aging Modules: