Loneliness as a Public Health Imperative: Reframing Social Disconnection in Aging North Carolina
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Our commentary examines loneliness and social isolation among older adults in North Carolina, highlighting demographic change, rural infrastructure constraints, caregiving pressures, and health workforce shortages shaping social disconnection. We propose cross-sector, equity-focused strategies integrating clinical care, community institutions, and measurement frameworks to strengthen healthy aging outcomes.
Source: North Carolina Medical Journal
DOI: 10.18043/001c.160308
Authors: Sierra J. Kaplan, Nathan A. Boucher
Institutions: Duke University, Durham VA Medical Center
Language: English
Subfield: Health
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7160073252