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January 27, 2026 Leah Kittredge 2 min read

Connect to Protect

We all need social connections to get the most out of life. As we get older, we may find ourselves with more time alone, leaving us more vulnerable to loneliness and social isolation which can negatively affect our health and well-being.

You can protect yourself from the negative effects of loneliness and social isolation.  To help you stay as mentally and physically healthy as possible, try exercising, eating healthy, getting enough sleep (7 to 9 hours), and pursuing activities you enjoy.

It's also important to stay active and connect with others. People who engage in meaningful, productive activities they enjoy with others feel a sense of purpose and tend to live longer.

Try one of these ideas to build or maintain connection:

  • Find an activity that you enjoy, restart an old hobby, or take a class to learn something new. You might have fun and meet people with similar interests.  Have you tried our Creative Aging meetups?  Find one near you and other upcoming events on our calendar.  Can't leave home?  GetSetUp provides hundreds of live online classes to keep you mentally, physically and socially active. Classes are interactive, easy to join, offered day and night and free for our community

  • Schedule time each day to stay in touch with family, friends, and neighbors in person, by email, social media, voice call, or text. Talk with people you trust and share your feelings. 

  • Stay physically active. Find ways to exercise with others, such as joining an exercise class or working out with a friend. Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes (2 1/2 hours) of moderate-intensity activity each week.  CVCOA offers a variety of free exercise classes.

  • Volunteer: helping others through volunteering helps you feel less lonely and allows you to have a sense of mission and purpose in life, which is linked to better health.  CVCOA has volunteer opportunities to fit your interests and schedule.  Deliver meals to your neighbors, offer companionship, lead an exercise class and much more!

  • Consider adopting a pet if you are able to care for one. Animals can be a source of comfort and may also lower stress and blood pressure.

Find more information about connection, loneliness and social isolation from the National Institute on Aging.

Source:  https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/loneliness-and-social-isolation/loneliness-and-social-isolation-tips-staying-connected