"I investigate how societal changes affect the elderly in terms of loneliness, social relationships, and their healthcare contacts. I study how cultural norms, and societal structures influence social inclusion, especially for disadvantaged groups such as low-income individuals and minorities. In one of my ongoing projects, I examine loneliness among older migrants. They often experience significantly higher levels of loneliness than the native population, despite often maintaining strong family ties."
Research shows that there are common misconceptions in society, in public debate, and in society at large, regarding social changes and aspects of aging. Bianca Suanet aims to help society move forward and find strategies for sustainable change to prevent social isolation and exclusion.
"It is fascinating to research the relational and contextual aspects of loneliness, which are often overlooked in favour of individual factors in the field. Relationships are inherently social and therefore influenced by broader societal structures and cultures. These aspects need much more attention in research and interventions."
Her interest in care, social support, and integration comes from her home, her mother was a manager of home care workers in the Netherlands. Family discussions emphasised the importance of social solidarity and supporting disadvantaged groups.
"My mother inspired me to learn more about how communities can promote inclusion and well-being. I am grateful for the influences I received from her and our family discussions, which have inspired my career."
Is loneliness among the older adults different now than it was 50 years ago?
Bianca explains further that friends play a larger role in the lives of the elderly today, than the family, when it comes to providing emotional and practical support. This is an important change in how social support networks are formed and maintained later in life. But there are also groups who benefit less from recent societal developments towards more diverse networks, such as those with lower incomes and migrants. And we need to understand why it is like that, and what we can do about it.
"Additionally, vulnerable groups, such as individuals with disabilities, migrants, and those with lower incomes, remain at high risk for loneliness in old age. Their opportunities for social participation are strongly influenced by the resources available in their communities and the broader societal policies that support them. To counteract these trends, we must invest in inclusive community resources and supportive societal policies that foster meaningful connections across all generations. By addressing loneliness as a societal issue, we can help build a more connected and resilient society for everyone."
How can we break social isolation among older adults?
"We need to create a stronger link between science and practice and improve traditional methods. Activities like bingo nights and holiday gatherings offer social contact, but not likely the meaningful relationships that provide secure and lasting social support. Instead, we need to understand why individuals become isolated and create effective methods that improve confidence, foster a sense of control over life, and create supportive community environments."
Research has started to uncover how context impacts on social isolation, but we need to know more, especially about the impact of community and societal impacts on social isolation. Proactive efforts are needed to prevent social exclusion and loneliness. Communities and their structures need to change through integrated actions at multiple levels: micro (individual), meso (community), and macro (societal).
"We need to develop policies that strengthens the social inclusion and create interventions before individuals become excluded or lonely. These policies and interventions need to be integrated into main social systems such as education, workplaces, and healthcare, as well as community structures and social policies. A shift is needed from what can be described as an individual perspective to a broader social perspective. This would ultimately strengthen the foundation for social inclusion."