Make a New Friend and Improve Your Health in 2026!
4/14/2026
Address Social Isolation and Loneliness to Improve Health and Well-Being
KIRKSVILLE, MO – Within the first few months of 2026, most people have made and broken at least one New Year’s resolution. More often than not, those resolutions involve health improvement. However, one step that every individual can take to improve their health and prevent chronic disease doesn’t involve diet, exercise or major lifestyle changes. Research indicates that maintaining positive social connections can help people live longer and healthier lives.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, about 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. report feeling lonely while 1 in 4 report not having social and emotional support. Social isolation and loneliness increase the risk of many chronic conditions and illnesses including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, depression and anxiety, and dementia.
The link between social connection and physical health is strongest in heart disease and stroke outcomes. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, the lack of social relationships – including social isolation, poor social support and loneliness – are associated with a 29% increase in the risk of heart disease and a 32% increase in the risk of stroke.
“More and more research shows that social connection is a critical component of overall health and well-being,” said Dr. Kade Kinney, family medicine physician and member of the medical staff at Northeast Regional Medical Group, a part of Northeast Regional Medical Center. “This is something we most frequently see in older adults, but social isolation and loneliness can affect physical health at any age. It is important to be aware of the signs and risk factors, and talk with your physician about resources and support.”
Social isolation is when a person does not have relationships or contact with others. Loneliness is when an individual feels alone or disconnected from others, even if they have social relationships. Risk factors include having a pre-existing chronic disease or long-term disability, having limited access to resources such as transportation, and experiencing a significant life event such as divorce, unemployment or the loss of a loved one.
“Patients should feel comfortable talking with their physician about what they’re experiencing day to day and any major shifts in their mood, energy level and routines,” said Dr. Kinney. “There is no one size fits all solution, but having the support of a physician is an important step in preventing social isolation and loneliness from leading to serious health issues.”
Dr. Kinney says patients often benefit from local support groups and mental health resources, as well as joining community organizations and volunteering. Many communities also offer local services to support social connection such as transportation services and free activities at libraries and community centers.
An annual wellness exam is recommended for all adults to reduce the risk of preventable health problems. To find a primary care doctor near you, visit nermc.com/find-a-doc.
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