Background

According to a 2023 report by the National Poll on Healthy Aging, more than one in three people between the ages of 50-80 in the United States suffer from social isolation and a lack of companionship. Although old-age homes continue to offer crucial caregiving medical support, they are unable to offer respite against the loneliness that sets in because of old age. The elderly lack community interactions and familial presence, as they are unable to partake in the joys of living with the people they love.

A diminished frequency of social interaction adversely impacts the mental and emotional well-being of the elderly. The absence of a sustained and nurturing social network also increases their susceptibility to mental health challenges, along with diminishing their spark of life. There is thus a pressing need for us to galvanize together and foster increased community participation and greater intermingling of the elderly in social activities. It is precisely in this regard that the CHANGES (California Holistic Action Network Group for Elderly Support) Project attempts to improve the well-being of elderly people by enhancing their social lives.

OUR WHY

The choice to focus on elderly care stems from a recognition of its occasional neglect in the broader spectrum of elder support, resulting in emotional isolation. This isolation, if left unaddressed, can yield profound repercussions on the health of elderly individuals and their families. Furthermore, it may instil worry and anxiety, diverting their attention away from their professional responsibilities and other essential facets of their lives. 

During my formative years, like many children, I cherished the invaluable time spent with my grandparents. These moments were filled with treasured experiences, such as visits to the park and leisurely strolls together. It is with great purpose that this project was conceived to reciprocate and ensure that our elderly population is endowed with equally cherished memories, mirroring the ones they so graciously helped us forge. By emphasizing this crucial aspect of care, I aim to bridge this gap and foster a more holistic and supportive environment for our elderly population. By providing opportunities for meaningful interactions and shared experiences, we aspire to create a tapestry of enduring, heartwarming moments for our seniors, ultimately enriching their lives in profound ways. This, in turn, can lead to enhanced well-being and a more enriching quality of life for seniors and their families alike.

THE GOAL

The implementation of this project not only promises a positive transformation in the lives of the elderly but also offers much-needed respite to their families, alleviating the persistent concern for the well-being of their parents or grandparents. As highlighted by the CDC, loneliness not only takes a toll on the mental health of the elderly but also significantly escalates the risk of severe medical conditions, including dementia (https://www.cdc.gov/aging/publications/features/lonely-older-adults.html).

THE INSPIRATION

The inspiration to initiate an elderly support project for loneliness was born from witnessing the profound impact of isolation on seniors in my community. Observing their solitude and longing for companionship served as a powerful motivator for me to take action. Additionally, listening to the personal stories and experiences of elderly individuals who yearned for meaningful connections further solidified my resolve to create a project that addresses this pressing issue. 

Their resilience and the fundamental importance of human connection became potent catalysts for embarking on this endeavor. Such projects are indispensable for various reasons. Firstly, they foster social inclusion and serve as a crucial antidote to isolation and loneliness among older individuals. Through engaging in group activities and interactions, seniors forge meaningful connections and maintain a vital sense of belonging in their communities. Secondly, these initiatives directly address the unique needs and challenges faced by the elderly population, offering access to specialized healthcare, mental health services, and resources tailored to age-related conditions and disabilities. Additionally, these projects often incorporate physical and cognitive activities, assisting seniors in preserving their physical health and mental acuity. This, in turn, elevates their overall quality of life and sustains their independence for as long as possible. Finally, elderly support projects contribute significantly to society by acknowledging the invaluable wisdom and experience that older individuals possess. By creating opportunities for them to share their knowledge and skills, we enrich the community as a whole.