Homecare For Companionship: Reducing Social Isolation Among Seniors

It is well known that seniors, especially those dealing with chronic health conditions, are at a high risk of social isolation¹. Research shows that around 30% of Canadian seniors are vulnerable to becoming socially isolated². Those who experience isolation are more likely to suffer from negative health outcomes and a decreased quality of life³. Having both informal and formal support systems in place is essential for their well-being. Homecare services can play a key role in providing much-needed companionship for seniors, especially during times when family and friends are unable to visit.

Factors That Put Seniors At Risk Of Social Isolation

Several factors can increase the risk of social isolation for seniors. The National Seniors Council has identified key contributors, including:

• Living alone
• Being 80 years or older
• Having multiple chronic health issues
• Lacking family contact or children
• Limited access to transportation
• Living with low income
• Changing family structures, such as younger relatives moving away for work
• Location of residence (urban, rural, or remote areas)

The more risk factors present, the greater the chance a senior will become isolated⁴.

Factors That Reduce Social Isolation

While certain factors can contribute to isolation, many influences help keep seniors socially engaged⁵. These include:

• Good physical and mental health
• Adequate income and safe housing
• Feeling safe in their neighbourhood
• Access to transportation and health services
• A supportive social network and satisfying relationships
• Feeling valued by society and connected to the community

These protective factors are crucial in keeping seniors integrated with their communities and maintaining a high quality of life through companionship.

Consequences Of Social Isolation

For seniors who become socially isolated, the consequences can be severe⁶. They are more likely to experience:

• Increased risk of premature death
• Depression and poor mental health
• Cognitive decline, such as dementia
• Reduced quality of life
• Higher use of healthcare services
• Physical disabilities from chronic conditions
• A greater burden on caregivers
• More frequent falls and hospital visits

The impact of social isolation is far-reaching, negatively affecting both individual well-being and the healthcare system.

Homecare And Companionship: Helping Reduce Social Isolation

While there is no single solution to the complex issue of senior isolation, access to homecare services is one way to reduce its effects. At Gravitii, we are dedicated to connecting seniors and their family caregivers with care providers who can offer meaningful companionship. Our technology helps match individuals with caregivers based on shared interests and activities, such as playing games or going for walks. By fostering these personal connections, we aim to bring joy and social interaction into the lives of seniors, improving their daily well-being.

¹Keefe, J., Andrew, M., Fancey, P. and Hall, M. (2006). Final Report: A Profile of Social Isolation in Canada. Submitted to the Chair of the F/P/T Working Group on Social Isolation. Retrieved September 2014.

²Keefe, J., Andrew, M., Fancey, P. and Hall, M. (2006). Final Report: A Profile of Social Isolation in Canada. Submitted to the Chair of the F/P/T Working Group on Social Isolation. Retrieved September 2014.

³Nicholson, N.R. (2012). A Review of Social Isolation: An Important but Underassessed Condition in Older Adults. Journal of Primary Prevention. 33 (2–3).

⁴Social isolation of seniors – Volume 1: Understanding the issue and finding solutions. Government of Canada. 2014.

⁵Social isolation of seniors – Volume 1: Understanding the issue and finding solutions. Government of Canada. 2014.

⁶Social isolation of seniors – Volume 1: Understanding the issue and finding solutions. Government of Canada. 2014.