Loneliness and Social Isolation – Growing Health Threat for Older Americans

Hard to avoid hearing about the consequences of aging. Even before COVID-19, the problem of loneliness and social isolation are not merely a source of sadness for many older adults. 

Studies have shown that isolation increases the risk of mental and physical illnesses. In fact, the health risks of prolonged isolation are equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day, according to the AARP Foundation. 

The added health and mental issues of isolation were a concern before the COVID-19 infection made older people even more isolated. While the isolation protects them from illness, the mere isolation itself is a concern.  

 Those in long-term care facilities have been facing the problem of isolation. However, there are ways to help a loved one overcome the problem. 

 Are You Prepared for Longevity?

If you are in your 40’s and 50’s you should be well on your way to planning for your future retirement. A successful retirement includes enough savings so you can an enjoyable and carefree lifestyle. 

You need the resources for the health and aging issues you will face as you get older. Your health, body, and mind will change in the decades ahead. Preparing your family and finances will give you and your loved ones peace-of-mind.

The financial costs and burdens of aging will impact your 401(k) 403(b) IRA and other assets. It will also have a significant impact on your spouse and family. Without advance planning, the default caregiver is first a spouse and quickly falls on a daughter or daughter-in-law. 

Family Caregivers Face Challenges 

Family caregivers are ill-prepared for the role of caregiver. It is not best for you or them. Affordable LTC insurance will safeguard savings and ease the burdens created by long-term care. 

If you don’t think you will ever need long-term care, better think again. Common sense would suggest that as more people age, they will need help with daily living activities – or even supervision due to memory problems. 

Your risk of needing long-term health care increases as you get older. The cost of paid care services continues to get more expensive. You can find the current and future cost of extended care services where you live by using the LTC NEWS Cost of Care Calculator. Just click here to use the calculator. 

Be sure to start researching your long-term care solution before you retire, ideally in your 40s or 50s.