By Andrew Walker, MPH; NSGA Director of Health & Well-Being
The health risks of smoking cigarettes are common knowledge. But did you know that social disconnection can be just as harmful? One study found loneliness is as dangerous as smoking 15 cigarettes a day and can impact health more than obesity and physical inactivity.
In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General released an advisory on the loneliness epidemic in the U.S. and the healing effects of social connection and community. The report revealed that about one-in-two adults reported experiencing loneliness in recent years.
May is Older Americans Month, and this year’s theme, “Powered by Connection,” is timely. The National Senior Games Association joins the Administration for Community Living in recognizing the power of social connections on health and well-being for older adults.
Senior Games athletes often note that camaraderie and community are two primary reasons they participate. Many athletes also form relationships by volunteering, teaching and mentoring in sports and other passions.
As we work to stay connected and help others battling loneliness, here are a few ways you can contribute to social connectedness.
- Reach out to others when you’re struggling with loneliness or isolation. You’re not in this alone!
- Participate in social and community groups such as fitness, religious, hobby, professional and community service organizations.
- Seek opportunities to serve and support others, including family, co-workers, and friends.
- Minimize distraction during conversation to increase the quality of your time with others.
- Take time each day to reach out to a friend or family member who may be experiencing isolation. A simple call or text goes a long way.
- Be civically engaged.
In our home state of Florida, the NSGA, Florida Senior Games and Major League Baseball’s Tampa Bay Rays are teaming up to recognize Older Americans Month and Senior Games athletes during the Rays game on Thursday, May 30, 2024. Although most of our readership is outside Florida, we invite you to encourage family and friends in the Tampa/St. Petersburg area to join us at Tropicana Field to celebrate the contributions of older adults. A special lower-level ticket with a Rays hat is available for our group and can be purchased here.
Wherever you are, make time to connect with others. You will experience the joy of helping someone while investing in your personal well-being.
