Having social connections is important to most people. In fact, it has been described as a “fundamental need” that people have. But what do we mean by the word connectedness?

There are several types of connectedness, for example self-connectedness or spiritual connectedness. In this module, we will focus on social connectedness which has been described as “a state of feeling close (or “connected”) to another person or other people”.1

Examples of social connections can include friends, family members, or people in our community. It can also include the helpers in our lives such as peer support workers or health care practitioners.

Many of us will experience various styles and levels of meaningfulness in relationships at different stages in our lives…from acquaintances to friends to family to supporters. It is your choice who you let into your life. Your social wants and needs are unique to you! But the important thing is to keep connections with others within reach.

1. O’Rourke, H. M., & Sidani, S. (2017). Definition, determinants, and outcomes of social connectedness for older adults: A scoping review. Journal of Gerontological