Loneliness is often dismissed as a temporary state with simple remedies such as going out with friends, learning a new hobby, or finding a community that shares the same interests. But for people with disabilities, loneliness and social isolation can be profound, pervasive, and far more challenging to overcome. While other pressing concerns related to living with a disability overshadow the issues, loneliness and social isolation can contribute to declining mental and physical health. Research shows that loneliness has the same harmful impacts on the body as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and premature death. Moreover, it can impair the immune system, increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, and lead to depression and other psychological disorders.
At ABLE2, we see the harsh reality of loneliness in the disability community every day. Many of the individuals we serve face unique barriers to building social connections— whether due to mobility challenges, communication difficulties, or lack of accessible social opportunities. Often, their interactions are limited, leaving them yearning for much more engaging social connections with people who choose to be there for them.
Findings from the Harvard Study of Adult Development, one of the longest-running studies on adult life, reveal that close relationships are crucial for happiness and health, more so than wealth or fame. Strong social connections can delay both mental and physical decline and are better predictors of long, happy lives than social class, IQ, or even genes. For people with disabilities, programs like ABLE2’s Matching Program have been a cornerstone of fostering meaningful and intentional friendships for people with disabilities in Ottawa for the last five decades.
The program pairs individuals with disabilities, known as “Friends”, with volunteers or “Allies” according to location and shared interests. These volunteers offer companionship, emotional support, and opportunities for social engagement, all by choice. ABLE2, formerly known as Citizen Advocacy of Ottawa, was established with this core program to support people with disabilities transitioning from institutions to community living. For the last 50 years, we have seen the profound impact of these connections. As matches develop relationships based on mutual trust and support, people with disabilities feel less lonely and isolated, improving their overall mental and physical health.
Michael’s story is a powerful testament to the impact of these connections. Living with agoraphobia, or fear of open or crowded spaces, Michael shares that for many months, he would often only see a handful of people. But earlier this year, he experienced a breakthrough—he went to his first Ottawa Senators game, an event with 17,000 screaming fans and loud noises. But he wasn’t alone. He was with his volunteer Ally Mike, who has been his steadfast support in helping him gain confidence and comfort in being in the community.
For Arne and Norman, ABLE2’s longest Match of over 40 years, their bond has grown stronger with time; for Patricia and Sophia, who have shared 15 years of companionship and now consider each other as family.
Each of these stories demonstrates how a simple friendship can transform lives, and the value of emotional and social support that is willingly offered by a friend— by someone who wants to be there for you.
When you reflect on your own network of relationships, it’s clear how important these connections are in navigating life’s ups and downs— whether it’s moving to a new city, making big life decisions, or coping with trauma or loss. Now imagine how challenging building these connections is for someone with a disability. Loneliness and social isolation aren’t just experienced by the few; they are becoming an epidemic, and we all can play a role in combating it.
At ABLE2, we are incredibly proud of our dedicated and compassionate volunteers, donors and supporters who have joined us in reducing loneliness and social isolation for people with disabilities. If volunteering is not possible for you right now, consider making a donation to ABLE2 so that we can continue this vital work. I invite you to join ABLE2 in empowering people with disabilities to build lives of meaning and joy.
Published by
Experienced Non-Profit Executive Director