Social Isolation and Loneliness

Posted on Mar 22, 2020 by Brad Meyer

In these days of Coronavirus and COVID-19 we are being asked to socially distance ourselves from others and stay home as much as possible.  This important measure can help prevent the spread of this virus and hasten the end of the global pandemic we're all facing.

However, this can have a side effect of creating social isolation, particularly with people 60 and older, people who live alone, and people who live with severe chronic health conditions. Social isolation and loneliness can cause depression which can cause poor health among our most frail population.

It's important to talk to family, friends, and neighbors to develop a plan to safely stay in regular touch as we socially distance ourselves, or if we are required to self quarantine for a possible exposure to COVID-19 infection.

Please stay socially connected with your loved ones and friends while we socially distance.  Video chat, email, or a simple phone call can help minimize social isolation and ensure that you know your loved ones and friends have what they need to get through these tough times.  Sometimes just a call to say hello works wonders and let people know that they are not forgotten.

We're all in this together.  And together, we can help protect all of us from COVID-19 as well as social isolation and loneliness.

Also, here is a great message from Kimberly Rich, Executive Director, Masonic Center for Youth and Families, on tips for managing stress during COVID-19.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WfvRA05-fRE&feature=youtu.be