Social Isolation

Many people as they age find themselves in social isolation. Social isolation means being left out, whether by choice or by circumstances, of a regular social network. While some enjoy the consistency of being alone, humans are, overall social. We like to gather, chat, engage, and share in conversation and camaraderie.
My father-in-law really liked his social isolation. Living on a farm with the closest neighbor 5 miles away and us, his family, 120 miles away, seemed fine for him. His isolation went beyond what many might consider normal: 20 miles away from the nearest phone, 60 miles from groceries, gas, or supplies, and just 1, very hazy television station for world connection. He liked the quiet, the peace afforded him with just a dog and some livestock to keep him company. While we visited almost every weekend and all summer long, he loved to see us come and I am certain he loved to see us go. I believe he is an exception to the social rule of isolation by choice.
Through hospice, I interacted with several individuals, several of whom lived in isolation. While some had spouses/significant others, they had made errors in judgment during life that had caused all other family members and friends to pull away. Most often this withdrawal included drugs and imprisonment, but as life reached an end, they longed for reconnecting and begin forgiveness. Reconnections rarely ensued. I, as an outsider, became more family-like than blood relations. It was heartbreaking to watch each one die of a broken heart because mending had become impossible.
My next three blogs will add more background information on loneliness, social isolation, and potential remedies.