The recent KFF Tracking Poll found that older adults were less likely than adults ages 18 to 64 to report that worry or stress related to the coronavirus has had a negative impact on their mental health (31% vs. 49%, respectively).  The prevalence of depression increases for those who require home health care or are hospital patients

Effects of Social Isolation on Older Adults

While suicide is the tenth leading cause of deaths overall in the U.S., it is the second leading cause of deaths among adolescents ages 12 to 17. Due to school closures, many kids won't have access to mental health services and won't be able to engage with their peers.  Furthermore their education will likely be negatively impacted.  The pandemic will cause these numbers to increase, while substance abuse will also be an additional risk for these kids.


Effects of Social Isolation on Households with Kids

In response to the particular vulnerability that nursing home residents face with respect to COVID-19, many nursing homes have been quick to implement strict isolation guidelines to protect their patients. However, this social isolation also has had the unfortunate effect of increasing depression and anxiety while worsening dementia and ability of many "to thrive." Although many attempted to allow for drive-in/by the window visitations, this confused and agitated many residents, who relied on daily visits by family members to prompt eating. A paper mentioned in the reference below reported how social isolation can promote poor health and greater risk for mortality. These problems have accentuated existing problems in the industry of poor conditions and staffing.

Effects of Social Isolation on Nursing Home Patients

- Older Adults
- Households with Kids
- Nursing Home Patients

Boston University

Ohio State University, Columbus

Former U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy has brought attention to the widespread experience of loneliness as a public health concern in itself, pointing to its association with reduced lifespan and greater risk of both mental and physical illnesses (Dr. Murthy serves on the KFF Board of Trustees). Social isolation also serves as a potential stressor.


Risk Due to Social Isolation

Panchal, N., &amp; Kamal, R. (2020, April 21). The Implications of COVID-19 for Mental Health and Substance Use. Retrieved July 24, 2020, from https://www.kff.org/coronavirus-covid-19/issue-brief/the-implications-of-covid-19-for-mental-health-and-substance-use/

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