By MICHAEL BIHARI, MD
Aug 9, 2024 According to the CDC, “Loneliness is feeling like you do not have meaningful or close relationships or a sense of belonging.” You might feel disconnected or isolated from others. Maybe you have not seen your loved ones or friends in a while. You might feel as if nobody understands you and there is no one to turn to.
Fortunately, we live in Falmouth. Our community has numerous opportunities to engage older residents that can help combat loneliness and improve social well-being. And, increasing social connection comes with enormous health benefits, such as decreased risk of cardiovascular disease, stronger immunity, increased longevity, higher self-esteem and overall better social, emotional and physical well-being.
Remember to take the time to stay connected to people who are already in your life—family, friends, former work colleagues or neighbors. Try to schedule some time every day to get in touch with at least one person—write a letter, send an email, make a phone call or meet for coffee.
Join a club or a group that aligns with your interests. For a small town, Falmouth has numerous organizations and programs that can provide you with opportunities to meet new people, develop friendships and create a sense of belonging. If you like to read, garden, go for long walks, sing, act, curl, play pickleball, discuss age-related issues, cook, politics, science, crafts, local travel, film or learning about the latest oceanographic discoveries, there is a place in this town for you to get involved.
Located at 780 Main Street, the Falmouth Senior Center, a town agency, is a hub of programs and services for Falmouth residents, age 60 and older. More than half of older adults in Falmouth belong to the center, which offers an almost-dizzying array of programs and services, including support groups, exercise classes, lectures, group discussions and fun social activities.
Find a faith-based organization where you can deepen your spirituality and engage with others in activities and events. All of the faith communities in Falmouth have programs that help bring people together.
Also, volunteer.
The Greek philosopher Aristotle once surmised that the essence of life is “To serve others and do good.” A growing body of research indicates that volunteering provides not just social benefits, but health benefits as well. People who volunteer have lower mortality rates, greater functional ability and lower rates of depression later in life than those who do not volunteer. And, older volunteers are the most likely to receive physical and mental health benefits from their volunteer activities!
Falmouth has numerous nonprofits that rely on volunteers to help fulfill their mission. Just a few of the local organizations looking for volunteers include Belonging to Each Other, the Falmouth Service Center, Neighborhood Falmouth, the Falmouth Senior Center, the Falmouth Art Center and the Falmouth Hospital Auxiliary.
Technology is another powerful tool for combating loneliness. Access to online social activities is nearly limitless. You can watch movies, attend online classes, participate in support groups and much more, all from the comfort of your home. Importantly, video-chatting applications such as Zoom and FaceTime provide a way to keep up with your loved ones near and far.
If you are not comfortable using your computer, tablet, cellphone or social media, there are several local organizations and businesses that offer programs for older adults. For example, the Falmouth Senior Center often sponsors a technology or “gadget” series, and members of Neighborhood Falmouth have access to tech-savvy volunteers.
Try connecting with a kid.
Intergenerational programs that connect older adults with younger generations are incredibly beneficial. These programs can provide you with a sense of purpose and the chance to share your wisdom and experience.
For more than 40 years, VIPS has been working with volunteers to support Falmouth public school students. VIPS programs offer volunteers with many ways to get involved, including regular one-to-one mentoring, classroom assistance or presenting a lesson. Several years prior to COVID, I had the privilege to mentor a student at Mullen-Hall. We bonded over an interest in photography and during a two-year period I felt that I had made a difference in the student’s life. I found it extremely rewarding.
There are also virtual programs, most notably Eldera is an organization that connects young people (6 to 17 years old) with vetted older mentors (60-plus years old), for weekly virtual conversations and activities.
Pets are another good way to combat loneliness.
Studies have shown that pet ownership can improve mental health, reduce stress and encourage physical activity. Whether it’s a dog, cat, bird or even a guinea pig, having a pet can bring you joy, companionship and a sense of responsibility. Also, walking your dog is a good way to meet people. If you cannot take care of a pet or it costs too much, you can get some “paw-time” by volunteering at People for Cats, Friends of Falmouth Dogs or the Falmouth Dog Park.
For some older adults, loneliness can lead to depression and anxiety. Professional help, such as therapy and counseling, can provide valuable support and coping strategies. Additionally, support groups for older adults dealing with similar issues can offer a safe space to share experiences and build connections.
Falmouth Human Services, a town agency, provides counseling, outreach, advocacy, information and referral services. The services are free of charge, confidential and available to all Falmouth residents. The telephone number for Falmouth Human Services is 508-548-0533.
Combating loneliness in older adults is an ongoing effort that requires awareness, resources and community support. All of us, regardless of age, can help combat loneliness in our community.
“Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” —Leo Buscaglia
Neighborhood Falmouth is a community-based, nonprofit membership organization whose mission is to help seniors live independently, safely and comfortably at home for as long as is practical by providing support, information and services. For more information or to volunteer, visit our website, neighborhoodfalmouth.org; or call 508-564-7543.
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