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Social Isolation Programs
What is Social Isolation?
Social Isolation may look different for different people. If you have limited or no contact with others but would prefer more, you may be experiencing social isolation. Social isolation can lead to loneliness and can impact physical and mental health. Social isolation can happen to people at any age. Older adults may be more likely than others to feel socially isolated because of various life transitions.
What Can We Do About Social Isolation?
AgeOptions and our partners in suburban Cook County are working to reduce social isolation by offering opportunities for social engagement in-person or virtually. Here are a few examples of the programs that allow for more social connection:
- Sing with our weekly Sounds Good Sing-Along
- Connect with other LGBT+ people with our Thrive with Pride Cafe program
- Learn about Uniper, the free virtual senior center in your home through your TV or tablet
- Find a local community dining site or home-delivered meals with our nutrition programs
- Participate in a local or virtual health promotion workshop at Illinois Pathways to Health (click on “Find a Class”)
- Connect with your local public library for help with technology and to access programming with our Library Program
- Sign up for free Active Daily Living emails on topics that matter to you
- And much more…
If you’re not sure where to start, AgeOptions has trained information and assistance professionals who can help. Call us at 708.383.0258 or reach out for an email or call back with our contact form. The following community partners are offering free or low-cost virtual classes and events. Visit these sites for more information or a calendar of events:
- Aging Care Connections
- Kenneth Young Center
- North Shore Senior Center
- Oak Park Township Senior Services
- Pathlights
- CJE SeniorLife
- Mather
Caregivers and Care Partners
If you are a caregiver or care partner, you may have unique social isolation needs. Learn more about the caregiver programs AgeOptions and local Caregiver Resource Centers offer here. If you are a person experiencing memory loss or a care partner for someone who is, there are targeted programs including:
- Local Memory Cafes
- Weekly virtual Good Memories Sing-Along.
- Respite services
- And more – to find your local Caregiver Resource Center, search by your address here or contact AgeOptions
Not Sure Where to Start? Contact AgeOptions
Our information and assistance team is ready to help you discover social engagement opportunities. Call us at 708.383.0258 or contact us today. Learn more about the statewide effort to combat social isolation here.