The negative effects of isolation is something the vast majority of the world can now relate to . The COVID-19 pandemic forced people from all walks of life and from every corner of the globe to spend less time with friends , family members , neighbors , and other acquaintances . As the world cut back on in-person interactions to curb the spread of the virus , billions of people recognized just how difficult feelings of isolation can be . Feelings of isolation are a problem many seniors know all too well . A report from the National Academies of Sciences , Engineering , and Medicine indicates that roughly 25 percent of adults aged 65 and older are considered to be socially isolated . That ’ s both sad and unhealthy , as the National Institute on Aging notes that research has linked social isolation and loneliness to problems such as high blood pressure , heart disease , anxiety , depression , and Alzheimer ’ s disease . Seniors are invaluable resources in their communities . Community leaders and local

residents can make a concerted effort to involve seniors in local events . Such efforts strengthen communities and help seniors remain active participants in their towns and cities .

• Promote senior-friendly volunteering opportunities . The importance of volunteers was never more apparent than during the pandemic , when many nonprofits and other organizations were forced to meet their missions without the assistance of volunteers who had been urged to stay home . Seniors were among the first people eligible to be vaccinated against COVID-19 and receive boosters , and many have been anxious to get back to pitching in . Communities can facilitate those efforts by developing and highlighting senior-friendly volunteering opportunities . For example , libraries can start a program where seniors read to children in person or via Zoom .

• Give seniors a chance to teach . Communities have rich histories that younger residents , including middle-aged adults , may be unaware of . One great way to shed light on

local history is to invite local seniors to speak about how life in their communities has changed and how it ’ s stayed the same . Themed speaking series can attract locals with specific interests . For example , local veterans can be asked to share stories of their time in the service , while retired business owners can offer insight and advice on running successful local businesses .

• Develop nature-based programs . A 2019 study published in the journal Scientific Reports found that spending just 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with

better overall health and improved well-being . Nature-based community programs , such as planting days at local parks , hiking clubs or even beach or lakeside cleanups , is a great way for community residents , including seniors , to get their weekly dose of nature and spend more time with their neighbors . Many seniors routinely confront feelings of isolation . Community leaders can take steps to help aging residents by developing and promoting programs that are inclusive and senior-friendly .