Social connection can play a vital role in the overall health and well-being of all Australians but as the population ages maintaining these connections can prove to be a challenge.
Combatting social isolation and maintaining independence is a cause that touches the very heart of the community focused values and mission embodied by St John.
In 2022, it was reported by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare that almost 1 in 7 (15%) Australians (18% of males and 12% of females) were experiencing social isolation. Social isolation and loneliness can harm both mental and physical health and may affect life satisfaction. They are concerning issues in Australia due to the impact they have on peoples’ lives and well-being.
Certain age-related demographic factors and socio-economic factors impacting on a person’s life are more likely to be associated with loneliness than others. Living alone and not being in a relationship with a partner are both substantial risk factors for loneliness. Other factors include relationship separation, bereavement, widowhood, being a single parent, having a disability, unemployment, low socio-economic status, and a disconnect from the community.
While there is no agreed definition of loneliness in research, it is generally described as a painful or unpleasant feeling that occurs when there is a gap or mismatch between the number and quality of social relationships and connections that we have and those that we would like to have.
Loneliness can also be broken down further into ‘social’ loneliness and ‘emotional’ or ‘individual loneliness. Social loneliness is when someone is missing their wider social network, for example, a wide group of friends, neighbours and colleagues.
The most effective way to reduce social isolation is to make people feel connected to their community. Age-friendly communities promote the well-being and participation of people of all ages and abilities, as well as older people. Implementing support services that enable age-friendly communities is one of the most effective ways to maintain social connections for everyone.
Understanding that connection, social interaction, and friendship are essential for well-being is a key motivation for the development and implementation of accessible and affordable community support programs throughout Australia.
The development of community support programs is not just about convenience but about enabling people to maintain their independence, participate in community life, and access essential services
Some of the solutions for reducing loneliness and social isolation include engaging in volunteer work and maintaining active memberships in sporting or community organisations.
Access to affordable community support programs also plays a vital role in reducing the effects of social isolation and improving well-being. Empowering a diverse and inclusive community where people are respected and enabled to make informed choices about the care they receive is crucial for enabling everyone to live their lives as they see fit regardless of age or disability.
Everyone has a right to have access to and be included in the community, including older Australians and people living with disabilities. Feeling a sense of belonging and connection with the community plays an essential role in improving the overall health and well-being of all Australians.
