BACKGROUND:
Social isolation is a known reversible risk factor for dementia and is sometimes responsible for accelerated cognitive decline. Memory clinics offer an important opportunity for early identification and intervention of social isolation.
METHODS:
This study aimed to perform a literature review using Google Scholar and PubMed to identify available and validated social isolation screening tools relevant to working-age memory clinic populations.
RESULTS:
Most studies reviewed prioritised older adult populations and were community-based, with limited inclusion of working-age individuals, reducing the relevance to the target population. Among the screening tools analysed, there was considerable variation in administration time, with the Duke Social Support Index taking the longest (25 minutes) and the UCLA-3 the shortest (under 5 minutes), making the latter more suitable for time-limited consultations. Tools were categorised as subjective, objective, or mixed, with mixed-method tools being the least common. Despite differences in design and focus, several tools, including the UCLA-3 and Lubben Scale, have been validated across age groups and settings.
CONCLUSION:
Integrating evidence-based social isolation screening tools into working-age memory clinics may support earlier intervention, reduce the impact of a cognitive impairment and thus improve patient outcomes; However, standardised clinical guidelines are necessary to ensure consistent uptake across services.