孤独有害健康，但影响或许没有想象中那么严重

Core Viewpoint - Recent research challenges the previously established link between loneliness and increased risk of premature death, particularly among elderly individuals receiving home care [2][3]. Group 1: Research Findings - A new international study involving over 380,000 elderly home care recipients from Canada, Finland, and New Zealand found no association between loneliness and increased mortality risk after controlling for other health risk factors [2]. - The study indicates that elderly individuals experiencing loneliness may actually have a lower risk of death within a year compared to those who do not feel lonely [2]. Group 2: Implications for Public Health - Despite the findings, loneliness remains a significant public health concern due to its severe impact on mental health [3][4]. - The prevalence of loneliness among home care recipients is notable, with rates of 15.9% in Canada and as high as 24.4% in New Zealand [4]. - The study suggests a complex relationship between health status, care needs, and social connections, highlighting the need for further long-term research [4]. Group 3: Recommendations - Researchers advocate for policymakers and healthcare providers to address loneliness as a quality of life issue rather than solely focusing on its potential link to mortality [4][5]. - Home and community care services should play a protective role by providing social interaction support for isolated individuals [5].