National Shut-In Visitation Day is a holiday observed on February 11th that encourages everyone to pay a visit to someone who is unable to leave their home. There are a variety of reasons why a person may be a shut-in, and these can range from physical or emotional conditions to mental ones.

No matter the reason for a person being confined to their home, one thing is for certain: many shut-ins feel isolated, cut off from society, and can suffer from depression as a result. Paying these people a visit can do more than just lift their moods; it can actually save their lives in some instances. And that’s why this is such an important holiday.

Facts About Social Isolation & The Elderly

We wanted to put a fine point on why it’s important to pay regular visits to people who are shut-ins, so we decided to list some of the facts about social isolation and the elderly that we think will underline the gravity of the situation.

• Social isolation increases the risk of mortality for elderly people.
• Loneliness can have a devastating effect on both mental and physical health.
• Loneliness has also been associated with cognitive decline and an increased risk of dementia.
• Social isolation makes seniors more likely to be abused by caretakers.
• Loneliness has been associated with high blood pressure.
• Seniors who are lonely are more likely to engage in unhealthy behavior.

Observing National Shut-In Visitation Day

This holiday is very simple to observe. All a person has to do is visit someone who can’t leave their home. Once there, the two of you can play a board game, watch a movie together, or simply engage in a face-to-face conversation. People can also use the hashtag #ShutInVisitationDay to spread the word about this holiday and encourage others to participate.