FOR YOUR HEALTH
FRIENDSHIP helps keep us healthy through all our years Having friends brings joy to our lives and strengthens our sense of purpose and belonging. Did you know that friendship also is good for our health? In an interview for Prime Connections, Dr. Ali Brock, geriatrics specialist at Dr. Ali Brock RiverStone Health Clinic Geriatrics Specialist and faculty member for the Montana Family Medicine Residency, explains why friendship and social connections are especially beneficial for older adults’ health. Dr. Brock: Older adults who are socially connected and have strong friendships are shown to have an improved sense of well-being and happiness. Studies have also shown that social connections increase longevity in older adults, suggesting that maintaining social relationships can buffer health risk factors as people age. What are common challenges for older adults who are trying to maintain social connections? Dr. Brock: The COVID-19 pandemic has presented an unprecedented challenge to maintaining social connections, particularly among older adults. Early on in the pandemic, Yellowstone County Health Officer John Felton said we should consider reframing social distancing as physical distancing, because the presence of six feet between people or avoiding large gatherings does not mean that we have to socially disconnect. There are ways to stay connected to those we love and have meaningful interactions over the phone, video chat, letters, or window visits. Vaccination and masking guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and 6
FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022
Prevention, as well as local public health guidance from RiverStone Health, have also made it much safer to have small gatherings and enjoy socializing again. Many older adults who have hearing or vision loss feel particularly isolated. It can be hard to interact with others if you are unable to hear or see what is happening in the conversation. Many older adults with sensory impairments grow frustrated or ashamed. Please talk to your doctor if you or a loved one are experiencing vision loss or difficulty hearing. There are often medical interventions that can help with this. What are the health effects of social isolation? Dr. Brock: Social isolation and loneliness are associated with an increase in deaths from all causes among older adults. They also increase an individual’s risk for dementia, heart attack and stroke. Loneliness is associated with an increase in depression, anxiety and thoughts of suicide. As a physician, I consider these adverse effects of social isolation and loneliness. It is important for me to ask patients about loneliness and social support when working with them to manage their chronic illnesses. Social isolation and loneliness are what we call social determinants of health – much like economic instability or food insecurity. If we don’t address these factors, individuals and communities have poorer health outcomes as a result. What advice do you give to your patients who feel lonely or socially isolated? Dr. Brock: I encourage my patients to find ways to meaningfully connect with others in a way that feels most comfortable to them. Not all people want to play cards at a local senior center, and others may not enjoy volunteering with larger groups or organizations and
