Preventing Social Isolation: A Holistic Approach to Nursing Interventions

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health
• Nursing

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitates social distancing, increasing social isolation risk in older adults.
• Social isolation is linked to adverse health outcomes in community and residential care settings for the elderly.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the impact of social isolation on older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To highlight the role of nurses in mitigating negative health effects through holistic interventions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on social isolation in older adults and nursing interventions.
• Analysis of the psychosocial impact of mandated social distancing.

Main Results:

• Social isolation exacerbates physical, psychological, and psychosocial health problems in older adults.
• Nurses are crucial in developing creative, holistic strategies to address these issues.

Conclusions:

• A holistic nursing approach is essential to protect older adults' ego integrity and maintain wellness.
• Nursing interventions can improve quality of life for older adults experiencing social isolation.