The South Carolina Institute of Medicine and Public Health and the state Department on Aging say that four in 10 of the state’s over-65 residents live alone and are at risk of isolation. The most at-risk are rural residents, residents of color, and seniors with disabilities.
Members of traditionally marginalized communities, such as the LGBTQ+ community, are also at particular risk of social isolation. According to the Institute, social isolation is a major risk factor for the development of dementias – especially among senior residents of color.
The South Carolina Institute of Medicine and Public Health’s report will be formally released Tuesday morning. This story will be updated Tuesday.
Source: South Carolina Public Radio
