by Cynthia Germain
Recently, a family member who lives at a distance in an assisted living facility confided that she feels lonely. This struck me because she is anything but isolated. She attends activities daily, her neighbors are just steps away, and staff come into her apartment at least three times a day. Yet, despite this constant interaction, loneliness persists. This person also struggles with multiple health issues, and her outlook on how those issues can be addressed is, unfortunately, quite negative.
Her experience highlights a crucial distinction—one that often goes unrecognized in discussions about older adults: the difference between loneliness and isolation. While isolation is a physical separation from others, loneliness is an emotional state, a feeling of disconnect that can occur even when you’re surrounded by people. This is particularly common in older adults who are managing chronic diseases, as the limitations those conditions bring can make them feel as though their world is shrinking.
Chronic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, or cognitive decline can exacerbate feelings of loneliness. Physical symptoms can lead to less mobility, limiting a person’s ability to engage in social activities they once enjoyed. Health concerns might also lead to a more negative outlook on life, as is the case with my family member. When day-to-day activities become burdensome or pain-filled, it’s easy to feel like you’re on an island—even if you’re technically surrounded by people.

Addressing loneliness in older adults goes beyond simply increasing social interactions. It’s about meaningful connections. Programs that focus on fostering a sense of purpose, facilitating deep relationships, and addressing emotional health are key to tackling loneliness.
At Commit to Connect, a national campaign aimed at reducing social isolation and loneliness, there are resources that help individuals find ways to connect in meaningful ways, even if their health or mobility limits them. Whether it’s through structured programs or learning how to maintain relationships while navigating health challenges, resources like this are a good starting point for anyone looking to bridge the gap between being surrounded by people and feeling truly connected to them.
As a part of the Commit to Connect campaign, we have the Wisconsin Coalition for Social Connection. Their site, Connect WI, offers a wealth of information on how to foster more meaningful social opportunities for older adults. Check out their tools and resources for individuals, caregivers, and communities, to improve emotional well-being as we age.
More locally, we are looking at holistic solutions—programs that focus not just on increasing social interactions but on boosting emotional and physical health as well. Do Good Door County’s Vitality in Aging program does this by providing a chance for older adults to take part in a structured program that aims to improve well-being from multiple angles. Whether it’s connecting with others through meaningful relationships or finding new ways to stay physically active, this program is a great way to combat the emotional toll of loneliness. Enrollment for Vitality in Aging ends on October 31st so now’s the time to check it out.
Loneliness and isolation are not the same, but both can have significant impacts on how we age. If you or someone you love is feeling lonely, but not isolated, consider the ways that social, physical, and emotional health are all interrelated, and explore options for creating more meaningful connections that go beyond just filling the room with people.