Isolation or social isolation means a lack of social interaction and connection with others. This can be either physical, such as spending time alone or being cut off from social networks, or emotional, where a person feels disconnected or unsupported, even in the presence of others. 

Isolation can be voluntary (a personal choice to withdraw) or involuntary (due to circumstances like illness, aging, or societal exclusion). Prolonged isolation can have significant negative impacts on health, it can contribute to heart disease, anxiety, depression, poor sleep and impaired executive function. 

Learn More: 

• Home Alone 

• Essential Connections 

• Canadian Clinical Guidelines on Social Isolation and Loneliness in Older Adults