Family and friends perspectives on communication barriers and patient social isolation in Canadian hospitals.

BACKGROUND

Hospitalization can disrupt patients' communication and social connections, potentially contributing to social isolation, while the supportive role of family and friends in communication is often underrecognized.

OBJECTIVE

This study examines communication access barriers and their association with social isolation among hospitalized patients, based on reports from family and friends.

METHODS

A cross-sectional online survey of family/friends across Canada (N = 179) was conducted to examine patient communication and social isolation. The questionnaire was distributed via Facebook advertisements (Meta Ads Manager) and administered through SurveyMonkey (February 14-28, 2025). Descriptive and inferential analyses were conducted.

RESULTS

Most respondents (Family and Friends) were female (78.8%) and were aged 40-49 years. Respondents reported that in-person communication was preferred (67.9%), and 58.5% shared communication responsibilities with patients and hospital staff. However, only 11.2% reported consistent staff communication support, and 5.9% reported reliable device access. Key barriers included lack of independent access to devices (23.5%), poor Wi-Fi (17.5%), and privacy concerns (16.1%). Fewer believed that communication challenges were prioritized equally with physical care (19.1%). Communication gaps were associated with social isolation. Inadequate support increased reported social isolation (odds ratio [OR] = 4.03, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.83-8.85), and patients whose communication concerns were not prioritized had greater odds of feeling social isolation (OR = 3.49, 95% CI: 1.12-10.83).

CONCLUSIONS

Based on family and friends' reports, communication barriers in hospitals are common, despite patients having active social networks. Limited staff support, challenges with independent device use, and Wi-Fi issues highlight modifiable gaps in hospital communication infrastructure.