Loneliness can be a pervasive and deeply distressing emotion, particularly for older adults. As we observe Loneliness Awareness Week, we recognize the need to shed light on the issue and empower older adults to combat social isolation. Loneliness is not a personal failing but a societal problem that requires collective effort and understanding.
U.S. Surgeon General Vice Admiral Vivek Murthy recently released an advisory on the epidemic of loneliness facing our country, and in a letter to the American people, he provides a stark figure of just how pervasive social isolation has become.
“In recent years, about one-in-two adults in America reported experiencing loneliness. And that was before the COVID-19 pandemic cut off so many of us from friends, loved ones, and support systems, exacerbating loneliness and isolation.”
He further notes that loneliness is much more harmful than bad feelings.
“Loneliness is associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia, stroke, depression, anxiety, and premature death. The mortality impact of being socially disconnected is similar to that caused by smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day, and even greater than that associated with obesity and physical inactivity.”
Loneliness is not just detrimental to the individual. Murthy details the harmful effects on society as well.
“A society that lacks social connection can be felt in our schools, workplaces, and civic organizations, where performance, productivity, and engagement are diminished.”
A core part of the Council on Aging’s mission has always been to address loneliness amongst seniors. To help people connect in-person, we have Community Dining programs in Bend, La Pine, Madras, Prineville, Redmond, and Sisters. Eating lunch together offers seniors an opportunity to congregate over a nutritious meal and get to know their neighbors.
Our Meals on Wheels program also offers the chance for home-bound individuals to connect with volunteers by providing home-delivered nutritious meals, personal contact, and related services.
As our organization grows, we are always seeking new ways to bring people together. During the pandemic, we developed the Caring Connections program to address issues of social isolation. The program matches seniors who would appreciate a weekly phone call or visit with local volunteers. These friendly phone calls and visits serve as a wellness check-in, an opportunity to socialize, and a link to other Council on Aging resources.
Joseph, one of our participants, notes just how helpful this program has been:
“My Caring Connections volunteer calls me each week. He is conscientious and has never once missed calling me! I’m grateful to the Council on Aging for having this program. My Caring Connections buddy has helped a great deal in alleviating the loneliness that I feel.”
Today, we have 35 participants in the program and are aiming to expand the program to reach even more seniors in the tri-county. If you are a senior interested in joining our Caring Connections program or know an older adult who would be a good fit for connecting to a volunteer weekly, call us at (541) 678-5483.
In addition to these and other Council on Aging programs, there are many other ways to make connections in Central Oregon during Loneliness Awareness Week and throughout the year.
Volunteering
Another way to avoid social isolation is to volunteer. The Council on Aging and our partners are always looking for interested individuals. Other organizations like Connect Central Oregon and VolunteerMatch aggregate different opportunities across the region, such as mentoring students, environmental conservation, and animal rescue.
Classes and Events
Health education classes are a great way to learn new information, try a new activity, and meet other like-minded individuals. In addition to health and wellness, there are other local events that can provide fun or helpful resources like festivals, tech and law advice, and support groups.
Additionally, libraries are a great resource to bring communities together. The Deschutes Public Library offers a wide variety of events, such as a singing club, writers club, and historical lectures. The Crook County Library has a walking group and a paint and sip class. The Jefferson County Library District has cribbage and an adult reading club.
Community Colleges also offer events open to the public such as art exhibitions and lecture series. Taking a college course that interests you is also an option – community colleges are meant to serve the whole community, not just younger adults. These courses provide a great way to make intergenerational connections.
Online Engagement
For those who aren’t able to leave their home, the internet may provide a lifeline to the outside world to combat loneliness. Seeking out local groups on social media, such as community groups on Facebook, your local neighbors on NextDoor, forums on Reddit, or even apps such as BumbleBFF can help you reach others from the comfort of home. You can also stay connected to your family and friends through video chats. Sometimes a call doesn’t quite cut it – it’s refreshing to see your loved ones’ faces and smile and laugh together.
Invite People to Your Home
For individuals who are homebound and also don’t have access to the internet, inviting friends, family, or other individuals into your home offers a way to make connections. Host a lunch, bake cookies with your grandkids, or start a book club. Our Caring Connections program is also a good fit for individuals who prefer to use the phone to communicate with others.
Loneliness doesn’t have to be so prevalent. Be sure to engage a senior in your life during Loneliness Awareness Week.
