lisolement

L’isolement, or isolation, is the condition of being separated from others or kept apart from social contact. It can refer to physical separation, such as quarantine or confinement, as well as to social or psychological withdrawal in which an individual has limited interaction with family, friends, or communities. The term is used across disciplines, including medicine, sociology, and geography, to describe the absence or reduction of connectedness.

Etymology: The term derives from the verb isoler and the noun l’isolement, rooted in the broader concept of separating something from its surroundings. In both French and English, the idea is to render an individual or place separate from others, whether by design or circumstance.

Contexts and implications: Social isolation refers to a deficiency of social contacts and is associated with increased risk of mental health issues, cardiovascular problems, and higher mortality, especially among older adults or people with disabilities. Medical isolation is a healthcare practice intended to prevent transmission of infectious diseases, employing measures such as dedicated rooms, protective equipment, and contact or airborne precautions. Geographic or digital isolation occurs when distance, terrain, or lack of connectivity limits access to services, information, or social participation.

Mitigation and policy: Assessment of isolation uses surveys and scales for loneliness and social connectedness. Interventions include community outreach, social prescribing, inclusive design, and policies to improve housing, transportation, and digital access. In medical settings, infection control guidelines seek to protect patients and staff while minimizing disruption to patient well-being.