CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – Social isolation and loneliness has been a huge issue pervasive among many older adults. The University of Illinois Extension Family Life (UIEFL) is offering a free program to help address these challenges.
According to recent studies, over 20% of adults experience social isolation or loneliness. While others enjoy solitude, social isolation can lead to high blood pressure, Dementia, Alzheimer’s Disease, and much more. UIEFL is now offering “Don’t Go It Alone: Improving Your Social Connections.” The free program will define social isolation, address why it is such an issue, and help individuals develop a plan for social connectedness.
“Social isolation and loneliness can be detrimental to health and happiness,” said Emily Harmon, Extension Educator with University of Illinois Extension Family Life. “This program offers a chance to learn more about these issues, develop strategies for staying connected, and explore resources available in your community.”
The program will be held at six locations:
- Monday, January 6: 1:00 – 2:00 PM at Stevick Senior Citizen Center, 2102 Windsor Pl, Champaign, IL 61820 (Suite 3, lower level)
- Thursday, January 9: 2:00 – 3:00 PM at Danville Public Library, 319 N Vermilion St, Danville, IL 61832 (1st-floor conference room)
- Friday, January 17: 10:30 – 11:30 AM at Moyer District Library, 618 S Sangamon Ave, Gibson City, IL 60936
- Thursday, January 23: 10:00 – 11:00 AM at Watseka Public Library, 201 S 4th St, Watseka, IL 60970
- Friday, January 24: 9:30 – 10:30 AM at 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 register, visit go.illinois.edu/DontGoItAlone or call 217-333-7672.