Fostering connections: Occupational therapy addresses social isolation in older adults

Social isolation—when an individual has limited social contact and few opportunities for regular interaction (U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2024)—has become a significant challenge in today’s fast-paced world, particularly for older adults. Those who perceive themselves as socially isolated often describe this experience as feeling lonely (Donovan & Blazer, 2020). In the United States, one in four adults has reported a lack of social and emotional support (CDC, 2024), and among Americans older than 60, 43% have reported loneliness (Donovan & Blazer, 2020). Many innovative strategies, though, can help bridge this gap and foster a sense of community and belonging.