Isolation can have as large of an effect as risks like smoking, obesity, sedentary lifestyle and high blood pressure (Cacioppo et al. 2011).

29% increased risk of mortality over time from social isolation and 26% increase in mortality risk from loneliness (Holt-Lunstad and colleagues 2015).

70% reduction in cognitive decline by those who are frequently socially active (James, Wilson, Barnes & Bennet, 2011).

40% reduced risk of developing dementia if socially engaged (Wang, Karp, Winblad & Fratiglioni, 2002).

60% increase in mortality rate in caregivers experiencing significant emotional stress from caregiving (Fredman L et al., 2010).

50% more food intake when people eat among company in a social setting versus those who are isolated (Washington DC, National Academy Press, 2005).

83% of those over the age of 65 are at risk for malnutrition (Hamirudin AH, et al, 2016).