“What is essential is invisible to the eye.”
-Antoine de Saint Exupéry
Painting by René Magritte
Writing and research on trust, belonging and human flourishing
Research
Authors: Matthew Lee Smith, Jillian Racoosin, Risa Wilkerson, Ronald Matthew Ivey, Louise Hawkley, Julianne Holt-Lunstad, Thomas K. M. Cudjoe
Publication: May 04, 2023, Frontiers in Public Health
In a collaborative effort, researchers from a diverse array of fields including public health, medicine, psychology, and community planning, have presented a critical analysis on the escalating issue of social disconnectedness among older adults. This opinion piece sheds light on the multifaceted nature of social isolation and loneliness, emphasizing its classification as a significant public health concern that affects roughly 25% of older adults in the United States.
The paper identifies the underlying societal-level challenges that perpetuate social disconnectedness and proposes a comprehensive framework of opportunities and solutions aimed at enhancing community capacity to foster meaningful social connections among older adults. Key strategies include raising awareness of social disconnectedness as a national priority, establishing common nomenclature across sectors, and developing uniform screening processes to accurately identify and address the social needs of older adults. Additionally, the paper calls for the strengthening of cross-sectoral referrals and community navigation, as well as the importance of building evidence about effective programs and services.
The authors advocate for a systemic approach to dismantle societal silos and promote a unified effort towards creating a more inclusive and connected community for older adults. This involves leveraging funding and data sharing, improving community spaces to promote connectivity, and forming action-oriented strategic alliances.
Citation: Smith ML, Racoosin J, Wilkerson R, Ivey RM, Hawkley L, Holt-Lunstad J, and Cudjoe TKM. Societal- and community-level strategies to improve social connectedness among older adults. Front. Public Health. 2023;11:1176895. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1176895.
A Supplement to the Surgeon General’s Advisory “Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation”
Authors: Brendan Case, Ian M. Corbin, Ronald M. Ivey, Jonathan Teubner, Richard Cowden, Erika Bachiochi, Flynn Cratty, and Tyler J. VanderWeele
Publication Status: In Review
The Human Flourishing Program at Harvard University has released a significant supplement to the Surgeon General Vivek Murthy’s advisory on the "epidemic of loneliness and isolation," building upon the foundational work to explore underemphasized drivers and potential solutions. This document extends the conversation by examining overlooked causes such as economic factors affecting the working class, the decline in children's independence, and the growing isolation of the elderly, alongside the downturns in marriage and religious participation.
The supplement outlines a comprehensive strategy to tackle loneliness by promoting policies that encourage better economic livelihoods, revive play and independence among youth, support multi-generational living, and revitalize marriage and religious community involvement. It argues for a broader societal acknowledgment of the intrinsic value these elements hold in combating loneliness and fostering a deeply connected society.
This document contributes to the critical discourse on loneliness and social isolation by highlighting systemic and cultural shifts needed to address this multifaceted crisis. Through a blend of policy recommendations and societal introspection, it aims to inspire a collective move towards a more connected and flourishing society
Recent Press and Publications
The Loneliness Cure, Financial Times, April 6th, 2024
This Financial Times story highlights the ongoing debate on the role of artificial intelligence in addressing complex social issues like loneliness, underscoring the importance of thoughtful engagement and the cautious integration of technology in fostering genuine human connections.
Recent Speaking Engagements
AI & the Future of Loneliness at SXSW, March 11, 2024
“Have you ever said “thank you” to Alexa? Or “goodbye” to a customer service chatbot? Integrating AI into our daily routines has sparked discussion over whether it has led to increased feelings of loneliness. After all, as technology develops and more jobs become automated, we have less contact with humans than ever before. One way developers are trying to combat this? Deploying applications of AI that can imitate the voices of loved ones. So is AI making us more or less lonely? In this discussion, hear from experts who will talk about the effects AI can have on our everyday lives.”
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