A JAMA Network Open study published online on February 2, 2022, shares that social isolation and loneliness are bad for our hearts as well as our moods and significantly increase heart disease risk in older women.
The study evaluated 57,825 postmenopausal women in the Women’s Health Initiative, a large national research database to which Harvard Medical School researchers contributed. The women (average age 79) filled out one questionnaire about social isolation in a 2011–2012 survey and another assessing loneliness and social support in 2014–2015.
By the end of the study’s follow-up in 2019, about 1,600 participants had been identified as having cardiovascular disease. Separately, loneliness and social isolation increased the risk of heart disease by 8% and 5%, respectively.
In addition to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle, the study emphasized social isolation and loneliness as cardiovascular risk factors.
In order to further prevent this risk, we offer our home care in Largo, Florida, to help aging adults battle the challenges of social isolation and loneliness. We can provide companionship and other necessary aid to make everyday life more comfortable.
PhilAm Home Care’s caregiver in Florida goes over and beyond by providing appropriate care for all ages. To prevent heart risk, our team can support a healthy lifestyle at home by supervising exercise, assisting with meals, running errands with your loved ones, as well as accompanying them to social events with friends and family.
We can partner you or a loved one with a home companion who can assist with duties, such as housekeeping, respite care, personal care, and more.
Get in touch with our personal care services today!
Leave a Reply