The Heart of the Matter

With over 20 years’ experience working directly and administratively for seniors as a nurse, I have a passionate desire to address two of their most underserved conditions: loneliness, and social isolation. No matter how much administrative service, medical care, or medications I have given, I have found that the most satisfying part of their day and mine are the social interactions I share with them.

As we retire, adjust to disabilities, illnesses, limited mobility, family relocations and loss of loved ones, older adults commonly find themselves isolated and marginalized in their golden years. Loneliness and social isolation are associated with higher risks for health problems such as heart disease, depression, and cognitive decline. Adults who are lonely or socially isolated are less healthy, have longer hospital stays, and are readmitted to the hospital more often. These factors are more likely to cause death earlier than those with meaningful and supportive social connections.

Tiaret-Nguvu Alkebulan, LPN

“The greatest reward of nursing is social engagement.”