Study Finds Thousands of Mississippi Seniors Went Unchecked in January

Survey highlights growing loneliness epidemic among older Americans living alone

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A new survey by Choice Mutual found that 32% of Mississippi residents age 65 and older who live alone reported no one had checked on them since January 1, equating to an estimated 12,659 seniors statewide who experienced a full month without meaningful social contact. The findings underscore concerns about the growing loneliness epidemic among older Americans, with 74% of respondents saying winter is when their loneliness feels at its worst.

Why it matters

Chronic loneliness can carry health risks comparable to smoking heavily, and U.S. leaders have described social isolation as a public health crisis, particularly among older Americans. This survey highlights the scale of the problem, with many seniors feeling forgotten or invisible during the winter months.

The details

The Choice Mutual survey found that 26% of seniors nationwide reported no one had checked in on them since January 1, with Mississippi's rate exceeding the national average at 32%. The survey also found that 20% of seniors living alone feel lonely every day during winter, 42% feel lonely occasionally, and 8% feel lonely several times a week. More than half (58%) said they worry their loneliness is harming their health, and 62% reported that isolation affected their physical or mental health this winter.

  • The Choice Mutual survey was conducted at the end of January 2026.

The players

Choice Mutual

A company that conducted the survey on senior loneliness.

Anthony Martin

The founder of Choice Mutual, who said the results should be viewed as a public health warning.

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What they’re saying

“Loneliness is often dismissed as a soft issue, but the numbers show it's anything but. When a quarter of seniors go a full month without a check-in, that's not just a social concern — it's a public-health warning light.”

— Anthony Martin, Founder, Choice Mutual

“In many cases, a simple phone call or knock on the door would make a meaningful difference.”

— Anthony Martin, Founder, Choice Mutual

What’s next

Advocates say small acts of connection, such as regular phone calls or visits, may be among the most powerful tools to combat the growing loneliness epidemic among older Americans.

The takeaway

This survey highlights the scale of the loneliness crisis facing seniors, particularly those living alone, and underscores the need for greater community engagement and support to address this public health concern.