CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – More than 20% of adults in the United States experience social isolation or loneliness, with older adults being particularly affected. These feelings of isolation can take a serious toll on an individual’s health and well-being, leading to a higher risk of conditions like high blood pressure, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease. To help address these challenges, the University of Illinois Extension Family Life, in collaboration with the Family Service Center, is offering a free program designed to help individuals improve their social connections.

The program, titled “Don’t Go It Alone: Improving Your Social Connections,” will provide information and resources to help participants understand and address social isolation.

Emily Harmon, Extension Educator with the University of Illinois Extension Family Life, emphasized the importance of staying socially connected, particularly as people age. “Social isolation and loneliness can be detrimental to health and happiness,” Harmon said. “This program offers a chance to learn more about these issues, develop strategies for staying connected, and explore resources available in your community.”

Social isolation, which refers to a lack of social contact with others, can be damaging to both mental and physical health. While some individuals may prefer solitude, prolonged isolation can lead to significant health concerns, including depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. The program aims to educate participants about these risks and help them develop a personalized plan to improve their social engagement.

The free program will be offered at several locations throughout the region:

  • Monday, January 6, 1:00 – 2:00 PM: Stevick Senior Citizen Center, 2102 Windsor Pl, Champaign, IL 61820 (Suite 3, lower level)
  • Thursday, January 9, 2:00 – 3:00 PM: Danville Public Library, 319 N Vermilion St, Danville, IL 61832 (1st-floor conference room)
  • Friday, January 17, 10:30 – 11:30 AM: Moyer District Library, 618 S Sangamon Ave, Gibson City, IL 60936
  • Thursday, January 23, 10:00 – 11:00 AM: Watseka Public Library, 201 S 4th St, Watseka, IL 60970
  • Friday, January 24, 9:30 – 10:30 AM: Kirby Medical Center, 1000 Medical Center Drive, Monticello, IL 61856 (Community Outreach Room, next to the Apple a Day Café)

The program is free and open to the public, but registration is required. To sign up, participants can visit go.illinois.edu/DontGoItAlone or call 217-333-7672.