Helen Keller famously stated, “Walking with a friend in the dark is better than walking alone in the light.”  Maybe she knew then what scientists are proving now.  The BBC reported a new study in the UK that found social isolation increases risk of death in older people, even when those elderly do not consider themselves lonely.  

You can read the full article here.

The risk is substantial – there is a 26% higher death rate for isolated seniors over seven years.

When you have someone in an assisted living facility or nursing home, be sure that the facility is taking care to help residents participate in meaningful group activities when possible.  Those social interactions may be more than pleasant, but also healthy.