Loneliness in Older Adults

The Positive Impact of Felician Village at Home

Yes it's true...Research* shows that loneliness and isolation can be as harmful to someone's health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

Myth - My family member needs time to rest, and time at home alone is the best way to do it.

Fact - The health risks of prolonged social isolation are equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

Solution - Felician Village at Home will work with each member to help support them in their aging journey. Felician Village at Home program committee members will recommend social and educational events for our members. Our office will find the speaker or activity, location and communicate the details.

Myth - Mom says she isn't lonely because we visit her on the weekend.

Fact - 1 in 3 U.S. adults age 45 and older are lonely. 

Solution - Felician Village at Home offers many social opportunities for our members. We can coordinate a volunteer companion visit or phone call for you. Also, our social calendar offers a variety of events to encourage new friendships, conversation, learning and fun!

Myth - You've lived in your home for decades; everyone knows you and you know everyone.

Fact - 61% of older adults reporting loneliness have never spoken to a neighbor.

Solution - Felician Village at Home is a supporter of the growing, national "village" movement. The model focuses on groups of older adults helping one another through volunteerism, education, social opportunities, and being there to support if, and when, the need arises.

Check out the U.S. News article, "Battling Loneliness to Improve Health for Older Adults," by Robert Mirsky, M.D. Contributor.

* Anderson, G. Oscar and Colette E. Thayer. Loneliness and Social Connections: A National Survey of Adults 45 and Older. Washington, D.C: AARP Research, September 2018. https://doi.org/10.26419/res.00246.001