Study ranks Mississippi second in U.S. for senior isolation

JACKSON, Miss. — Mississippi has been ranked No. 2 in the nation for senior isolation, according to a new study by Mirador Living. The state earned an Older Adult Isolation Score of 92.87 out of 100, reflecting high rates of loneliness, poverty, and independent living challenges among residents 65 and older.

The study found 15.8 percent of Mississippi seniors live below the poverty line, the highest among the top 10 states. Nearly half (48 percent) are unmarried, divorced, separated, or widowed, and 15.43 percent report difficulties with independent living. Experts warn these factors increase risks of dementia, depression, and premature death.

“Senior isolation is a hidden crisis with serious effects on health and well-being,” said Dharam Khalsa, CEO of Mirador Living.