Vermont Business Magazine At the national level, the former Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy has been raising awareness of both an “epidemic of loneliness” and its impacts on health. Lack of social connection can increase risk for heart disease and stroke, and can be as detrimental to health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Meanwhile, being socially engaged and connected to others and one's community can lead to improved mental and physical health, a longer life span, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Area Agencies on Aging, including Central Vermont Council On Aging (CVCOA), are taking up the call to action, assisting older adults to strengthen their social connections and relationships.
On Wednesday, February 26, you can dive deeper into today's so-called "epidemic of loneliness" and learn how AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers are addressing this problem across Central Vermont. This Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) talk, Volunteerism, Civic Engagement and the Epidemic of Loneliness, will take place at the Montpelier Senior Activity Center from 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.
Caitlin Roseen, Director of Community Engagement said, “Staying engaged in community is critical to healthy aging. We want to get the word out that volunteering is a great way to make new connections in your community and reap the associated health benefits. Our volunteer opportunities are also designed to reduce isolation and loneliness for the individuals our volunteers support – and we have a large waitlist of older adults looking for a volunteer.”
In addition to several volunteer opportunities, CVCOA offers a wealth of ways to strengthen your social connections. You might rekindle your creative talents through our Creative Aging program, participate in our full schedule of exercise and wellness classes, or learn new ways to connect with friends and family through our technology training classes. You can find information about all of these programs at cvcoa.org.
If you’re interested in talking more about ways to connect and volunteer opportunities, come to the OLLI talk or reach out to us at [email protected].
Central Vermont Council on Aging (CVCOA) supports older Central Vermonters to age with dignity and choice in 54 towns. Visit the CVCOA website at www.cvcoa.org or call the CVCOA Helpline at 1-802-477-1364 for more information or assistance. CVCOA is located at 59 North Main Street, Suite 200 in Barre with regional offices located in Morrisville and Randolph.
Central Vermont Council on Aging
59 N Main St, Ste 200
Barre, VT 05641
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