Welcome to Mindful Monday times four, where we combine our series of four videos about loneliness among older people and the damage it does. First, we present the first in the four-video series by Shannon Braun, director of ERS' Center for Memory Support and Inclusion. She tells us how harmful social isolation can be to the health of older adults. Shannon also offers suggestions on how to help people you know or love.

Part 1

The damage from social isolation is startling, and it can be surprisingly deadly. Shannon tells us minimal social contact is a greater predictor of death than heavy smoking, air pollution, obesity and alcohol consumption

Here's the first video:

Part 2

Disappointingly large percentages of older adults are isolated and lonely. Shannon brings us some sad statistics about that.

Here's the video:

Part 3

In the next video, Shannon talks about what the U.S. Surgeon General has called an Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation, and why older adults can hesitate reaching out to others.

Here's the video:

Part 4

You and others can do a lot to combat the epidemic of loneliness, and Shannon has several suggestions about how, in this, the final video of the series:

More suggestions for help

For more Mindful Monday Videos, click here.

Lots of other helpful information about dementia support groups, activities for people with dementia and their loved ones -- plus other resources -- can be found at theERScenter.org.

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