Skip to content

Overcoming Social Isolation and Loneliness

Making Friends and Building Community

An older woman with white hair looks towards a window with sheer curtains.

Since the Covid-19 pandemic, the world has realized more than ever the importance of social connection. According to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), loneliness and social isolation are associated with higher risks for health problems such as heart disease, depression, and cognitive decline, and can affect the ability to perform daily activities and live independently.  At the Resource Center, we are passionate about fighting social isolation and loneliness by creating opportunities for connection, friendship, and community among older adults. 

Is there a Difference Between Loneliness & Social Isolation? 

Loneliness and social isolation are different. According to the NIA, loneliness is the distressing feeling of being alone or separated. Social isolation is the lack of social contacts and having few people to interact with regularly. You can live alone and not feel lonely or socially isolated, and you can feel lonely while being with other people.  

When a person becomes lonely, they may experience emotional pain from losing their community connection. Suffering from chronic loneliness can lead to more serious conditions including chronic inflammation, reduced immunity to fight off illness and disease, and increases in the risk of other diseases including anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, cognitive decline, dementia, heart disease, and even death.

Causes Tied to Loneliness & Social Isolation

There are a variety of factors that may increase your risk of social isolation and loneliness. These include:  

Loss of Mobility  
Vision and Hearing Problems   
Psychological or Cognitive Challenges  
Feeling a Lack of Purpose  
Financial Struggles  
Living Alone  
Lack of Transportation  
Inability to Leave Home Without Help  
A Major Life Change (such as the death of a family member)
Separation from Friends or Family  
Lack of Social Support  
Caring for a Loved One who is Unwell  
Language Barriers

Knowing these risks can change the level of loneliness and social isolation that one may experience.   Finding ways to stay active and connect with others is the key! 

Three older women share an embrace and socialize together

What Can I Do to Help Overcome Loneliness for Myself or a Loved One? 

According to the NIA, people who engage in meaningful, productive activities with others feel a sense of purpose and tend to live longer. Evergreen Commons offers a variety of activities you or a loved one can enjoy with others! 

One way to stay connected is joining a club. From book clubs and knitting clubs to sports talks and acting groups, Evergreen Commons has a wide selection of clubs for different interests. It is also home to a state-of-the-art woodshop where members can enjoy the camaraderie of others in their woodworking hobbies.   

Evergreen is also home to some wonderful dance and music opportunities. Whether you like to follow the beat of the music through line dance, the graceful music that is heard in ballet, or even singing and playing the music yourself, Evergreen has an option for you!  

Evergreen Commons is also proud to offer group fitness classes in both the therapy pool and on land. Members can enjoy the socialization and motivation from peers in exercise classes where instructors lead participants through fun and engaging workouts. 

No matter how you choose to build community and make connections, at Evergreen Commons you will meet new friends and share meaningful experiences that will better your quality of life!  

We're here for additional resources.

If you or a loved one have questions, or want to hear about new social opportunities, please check out our website or contact Member Services:

Connect With Us