Mainer to tell Senate about crippling effects loneliness can have on elderly
Republican Sen.
"We've never been a more isolated society than we are now," Kaye said during an interview Tuesday. "It used to be we had extended families living under the same roof or at least in the same neighborhood or community."
Now, more people are leaving rural places like
The
Studies indicate that loneliness can be hazardous to a person's health. People who report having isolated lifestyles have higher rates of disability and death, mental health issues, and lack access to needed services such as healthcare. Studies have even indicated that lonely people have more severe cold symptoms.
Widows, widowers and seniors without close family nearby aren't the only older people who can struggle with isolation. Even couples can feel the effects, because they experience loss of loved ones and friends regularly, Kaye said.
Seniors with limited contact with others also are more susceptible to scammers, who target them by pretending to be interested and engaged, but ultimately take advantage and turn them into victims.
Kaye plans to urge lawmakers to support community programs that help seniors stay social and connected to their neighbors.
Among them, he cited the
Also, some police departments call or visit homebound, isolated seniors to make sure they're safe. And Kaye said postal workers in
Another example of a support program is
"Established programs such as
Other experts scheduled to address the committee Thursday are
"We shouldn't take lightly the dangers that accompany being socially isolated," Kaye said. Communities need to recognize the importance of every member of their community to the life of their community."
The committee will host a second hearing on the topic in May, when experts will discuss how best to combat the isolation of elderly Americans and the negative consequences that result.
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