Can Architecture Influence the ‘Social Isolation’ Epidemic?
Can Architecture Influence the ‘Social Isolation’ Epidemic?
According to the New York Times: “Since the 1980’s, the percentage of American adults who say they’re lonely has doubled from 20 percent to 40 percent.” Moreover, studies suggest that socially isolated individuals have a higher rate of contracting heart disease and stroke – 29% and 32% respectively. These numbers make loneliness as serious of a health risk to society as obesity and smoking.1 So, how does that relate to Architecture and urban living?