Protection Measures and Community Integration of Elderly People in a Situation of Social Isolation: Challenges and Solutions in the Context of Contemporary Romania

Social isolation of the elderly is a complex phenomenon, characterized by the lack of meaningful social interactions, which can have profound negative effects on physical and mental health and overall quality of life. The aim of the research was to explore the perceptions of older people on social isolation, with a focus on identifying the factors that contribute to this phenomenon, its emotional impact and possible solutions identified for its reduction. The study aimed to analyze both the social and emotional dimensions of social isolation, in the specific context of rural and urban environments, respectively, and used the interview as a qualitative method of data collection. The results indicated that social isolation in the elderly is mainly influenced by the lack of regular social interactions, being amplified by significant personal losses.

Keywords: social isolation, elderly people, social relationships