The University of Missouri Extension Office is tackling a common mental health issue that can impact physical health: Loneliness.
Naomi Meinertz is an Extension Aging Specialist.
"Loneliness makes older adults more likely to have symptoms of dementia," Meinertz says.
She says studies show a lack of social interaction can be connected to poor sleep, high blood pressure, and a weak immune system. Which is where the M-U Extension “Show Me Connection” effort comes into play.
M-U Extension’s Kale Monk says loneliness can be tied to physical health issues.
"We sleep more poorly. We can have higher blood pressure. If we are admitted to the hospital, we might stay in the hospital longer," Monk explains. "It affects our immune system, so we literally heal more slowly than folks who are more socially integrated."
M-U Extension’s “Show Me Connection” effort is a collaboration of programs designed to encourage learning and social interaction.
Monk says social interaction can have multiple benefits.
"Having those social relationships in our life also gives us motivation to essentially keep going, motivate us to stay healthy because, for example, to stay active so that you can keep up with your grandchildren," Monk says
He says there are mounting studies showing loneliness can result in reduced overall health.
Missourinet