quote:

---

Originally posted by interpaul

Jclone, There are ample studies supporting social isolation is unhealthy. There is a longitudinal study conducting at Harvard for over 80 years that looked into all factors contributing to health and they have concluded without any doubt, social connections are vital to our health. We are fundamentally social creatures. Here is an excellent talk that goes over that study and you might find interesting. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iGI8tHau1k4 It is great you are concerned regarding your friends health but I would tread lightly on this. many people experience social anxiety and introverts can find social engagement deenergizing, unless it is on their own terms. Few people like to be told what to do unprompted. And, as you point out, holidays are particularly stressful. It's been even harder lately given the limitations of social engagement during this pandemic. I have some friends in similar situations. I generally try to connect with them in whatever way they feel open. It isn't your job to "fix" them or shame them through pressure.

---

quote:

---

Originally posted by Blanche

The need for social interaction is a continuum, with little need for some to very high need for others. Obviously, people who were more socially engaged before the pandemic will miss this more now. Some of the things you could do is to give her a call maybe once a week, invite her for a social distance walk, and organize 5 o'clock zoom time with your friends once a week, where people can sign in and chat for a while if available. Friends reported that they stay in touch more with the extended family and far-away friends these days due to online time-together sessions.
It is remarkable how adaptable humans are, so let's make the best of this situation, while doing our part to mitigate the pandemic. This too shall pass.

---