NSSC Hosts “Social Isolation and Loneliness: How to Move Forward”

If you experience loneliness and/or isolation, either on an episodic or periodic basis, current studies indicate you are far from alone. The team at North Shore Senior Center (NSSC) wants to help older adults feel more socially connected.

Community residents are invited to attend the upcoming program, “Social Isolation and Loneliness: What’s the Difference and What Can Help” on Wednesday, May 15 at 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. The program is available in person at NSSC located at 161 Northfield Road, Northfield, Jacobi Room, or via Zoom. The cost is $10 for NSSC members and $15 for non-members.

Register Today

Residents are encouraged to register online. Or call NSSC’s Lifelong Learning Department at 847.784.6030 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Participants can attend in person at North Shore Senior Center or via a Zoom virtual streaming link emailed upon registration.

Meet the Speakers and What they Will Share

Seminar speakers Sarah Jackson and Terri McHugh, NSSC Licensed Clinical Social Workers, will address the questions: “Do you feel lonely in a crowded room? Has it become difficult to leave home despite wanting to be more connected?”

Be assured you are not alone. Jackson and McHugh will discuss factors that lead to isolation, barriers to alleviating the problem, and what can be done to help.

The rates of social isolation and loneliness among older adults have increased since the pandemic began. In fact, a considerable number of people—up to 50% across most age groups—encounter the challenges formally identified in a 2023 report by the U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community.

There is a Path to Alleviate Loneliness

The recent May-August 2024 issue of NSSC’s Engage Magazine and Lifelong Learning Catalog featured a story for community residents: A Path to Alleviate Loneliness: Equal Measures of Inspiration and Motivation. See pages 10-11.

The story helps readers understand there is a loneliness epidemic as well as many ways to help conquer loneliness without technology. In addition, it reports on how to take the first step to meeting like-minded people.

About North Shore Senior Center

Headquartered in Northfield, NSSC is a nationally accredited 501(c)(3) organization that serves older adults from the most independent to those needing more support. NSSC engages more than 24,000 older adults and their families each year throughout Chicago’s northern suburbs.

NSSC offers a comprehensive suite of services including a wide array of social services, specialized care for people living with dementia, therapy and counseling, personal money management services, educational and wellness programs, and volunteer opportunities. Visit: www.NSSC.org or call 847.784.6000 to learn more.