Rural Monitor Articles by Topic: Social connectedness

Loneliness and Social Isolation Are Common in Rural America. Is “Social Infrastructure” the Solution?

June 12, 2024
While loneliness and social isolation are often viewed as individual problems or even personal failings, there is growing awareness of the structural factors contributing to widespread disconnection. Amid a national "loneliness epidemic," some rural leaders are finding ways to help their neighbors connect.

Produce Prescription Programs Offer 'A Holistic Approach' to Addressing Rural Food Insecurity and Diet-Related Disease

January 24, 2024
Produce prescription programs have gained popularity in recent years as a model for addressing food insecurity and diet-related disease. While such programs are still uncommon in rural areas, those that do exist report wide-ranging impacts on participants and local food systems.

'A Safe Place': Rural HIV Patients and Providers Fight Stigma, Isolation Through Connection

June 28, 2023
New HIV infections are on the decline in the U.S. — but in some rural areas, lingering stigma and misunderstanding still stand as barriers to the prevention and treatment of the virus.

Social Isolation and Loneliness: Insights from Rural Clinical Providers and Other Experts

July 10, 2019
As more healthcare delivery efforts include social risk assessments, the impact of the social determinants of health is better understood. Rural clinicians, researchers, and other experts share perspectives on social isolation and loneliness.

The Rural-ness of Social Isolation: Information from Recent Public Health Research

July 10, 2019
Considered social determinants of health, social isolation and loneliness impact health. The University of Minnesota Rural Health Research Center's Deputy Director, Dr. Carrie Henning-Smith, explains how these determinants impact rural Americans based on information from her team's recent studies.

Volunteering A Win-Win for Seniors and Rural Communities

November 18, 2014
Many rural nonprofit organizations benefit from senior volunteers, giving them a chance to share their expertise and stay engaged.

The Rural Monitor Articles by Topic: Social connectedness