Loneliness in Individuals with Disabilities
摘要
Loneliness, a subjective feeling of social isolation, can affect Individuals with Disability. Defined as the discrepancy between desired and actual social connections, loneliness is categorized e.g., into emotional loneliness, social loneliness, and existential loneliness. The prevalence of loneliness is significantly higher among individuals with disabilities compared to the general population, with disability-specific factors exacerbating the experience. Various measurements, both general and disability-specific, can be employed to assess loneliness, often highlighting the complex relationship between social isolation, physical and cognitive limitations, and environmental barriers. Loneliness tends to change over time, triggered specifically by (critical) life events, social environments, and disability progression. Its dynamics are shaped by deteriorating health and functionality, with individuals facing prolonged disabilities experiencing heightened levels of loneliness. Loneliness is detrimental to well-being, contributing to mental health challenges, decreased physical health, and lower quality of life. Theories explaining loneliness suggest it may serve as a biological or social function that signals a need for social connection, but its persistence can lead to harmful outcomes in modern societies. As societies become more diverse, and living environments become more fragmented, factors like social exclusion and loss of workplace further contribute to loneliness. Technology, while sometimes viewed as a contributor to loneliness, is also providing options for new interventions. Technological tools, such as social robots, Artificial Intelligence (AI) companions, and conversational agents, are increasingly employed to mitigate loneliness, particularly for older adults or individuals with disabilities. Addressing loneliness requires a multifaceted approach. Effective interventions include social support programs, education on social inclusion, workplace prevention strategies, and health promotion. Enabling environments that foster accessibility and participation can also reduce isolation. Technology-assisted interventions, particularly those incorporating AI and social robots, offer promising solutions for providing emotional and social care. Ultimately, targeted interventions that focus on creating supportive networks, promoting enabling environments, providing medical rehabilitation, and leveraging technology can help mitigate loneliness and improve the well-being of individuals with disabilities.