Social isolation is a growing public health concern for older adults and can affect physical health, mental health, and overall well-being. While social isolation means having few social relationships or limited support from others, loneliness refers to feeling alone or disconnected. Older adults may face heightened risk due to living alone, loss of a spouse or partner, transportation barriers, housing instability, or limited access to community-based supports.

In a West Health Mosaic blog post, CHCS program officer Valerie Flores, MPH, explores how states and communities can help older adults build meaningful social connections. The article highlights approaches such as intergenerational housing, “homesharing” programs, community groups, accessible transportation, microtransit, and state planning efforts through multisector plans for aging and state plans on aging. These strategies can help older adults stay connected to their communities and support healthier aging.