Social distancing increasing loneliness in old people: Study

London, Nov 10 : A new research adds to the growing body of evidence that social distancing introduced in response to Covid-19 is increasing feelings of loneliness in the older population and impacts their well-being.
The study found that increasing loneliness due to social distancing was associated with a smaller social network, lower perceived social support and a decrease in well-being.
Previous studies have demonstrated the negative impacts of social isolation and loneliness.
“Our study which involved a survey of more than 1,400 older people examined the impact of social distancing during the pandemic on social activity, loneliness and wellbeing,” said a study author Anna Whittaker, University of Stirling, UK.
“The majority of survey participants reported that social distancing has made them experience more loneliness, social contact with fewer people and less social contact overall,” Whittaker added.
The study found that a larger social network and better perceived social support seem to be protective against loneliness and poor health and well-being due to social distancing.