Social Isolation and the Built Environment: A Call for Research and Advocacy

Abstract

Social isolation can be defined as a state in which an individual experiences less social engagement with others than they would prefer, and that interferes with their quality of life. Social isolation can happen at any point during the life span; however, social isolation among older adults often presents gradually due to specific life transitions and life events. Although older age is often cited as a main characteristic of social isolation, research has demonstrated that older age does not have a universal negative influence on social connectedness (Cornwell, Schumm, Laumann, Kim, & Kim, 2014). Factors associated with social isolation vary, and can include retirement, poor health, change in socioeconomic status, or the loss of a friend or family member (Bekhet & Zauszniewski, 2012). Research also identifies living alone, having a small social network, and infrequent participation in social activities as risk factors for social isolation among older adults (Cornwell & Waite, 2009).