How seniors can combat isolation and loneliness

At our core, humans are social creatures. It’s being together, not alone, that has helped us not just survive as a species, but thrive.Yet so many of us struggle to stay connected. A recent survey from the American Psychological Association estimates half of adults in the U.S. say they lack companionship or are isolated from others, at least some of the time. 

That takes its toll both on our brains and our bodies.What difference does connection make for a population whose health is especially vulnerable such as older adults? What can seniors do to expand their social networks?

A professor who has focused on this for some of her research and an educator who works with seniors weigh in.

GUEST

Lissette Piedra 
Professor, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
School of Social Work
Latina and Latino Studies

Emily Harmon 
Family Life Educator, University of Illinois Extension