June 2023 Newsletter

What if there’s something in our everyday lives that can transform our health and well-being? That something does exist - and it’s called social connection!

Our relationships and interactions with family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors are just some of what create social connection. Our connection with others and our community is also formed by our neighborhoods, digital environments, schools, and workplaces. These are essential components to our long-term health and wellness. Today, loneliness is more widespread than most other major health issues in the United States and has become a major health concern. According to a 2018 National Panel Survey, approximately one in two adults in America reported experiencing loneliness, and that was before the COVID-19 pandemic cut off so many people from friends, loved ones, and support systems. Loneliness and isolation represent profound threats to our welfare, but we have the power to respond, by taking small steps each day to strengthen our relationships, and by supporting community efforts to rebuild social connection.

According to the Office of the U.S. Surgeon General (2023), “The lack of social connection poses a significant risk for individual health and longevity. Loneliness and social isolation increase the risk for premature death by 26% and 29% respectively. Lacking social connection can increase the risk for premature death as much as smoking up to 15 cigarettes per day. In addition, poor or insufficient social connection is associated with increased risk of disease, including a 29% increased risk of heart disease and a 32% increased risk of stroke” (p.8).

Strong social connections can decrease the risk of developing and worsening issues such as heart disease, anxiety, high blood pressure, dementia, depression, and diabetes, reducing the risk of premature death. Increased social interaction can influence health-related behaviors, and play a role in educational and economic achievement. Fostering social connection requires that we commit to our relationships and communities. Our actions today can create sustainable changes to society and encourage better overall health and wellness.

Bees and Blooms Painting
Thursday, June 8
at 1:00 p.m.
Painting made simple and fun. Join us for this relaxing pre-summer painting event sponsored by Synergy Home Care and Keystone Place at Wooster Heights to create a simple, yet beautiful, painting in a few easy and creative steps. Please register, as space is limited.

Corn Hole
Tuesday, June 20
at 10:30 a.m.
Join us and learn how to play Corn Hole - the great game that everyone can participate in. Be ready to show off to your grandchildren at the next family picnic.
No registration required – just show up for the fun.

Escape with Us!

Flyers are available at the Center. Friendship Tours requires a separate check for each event. Checks should be made payable to Friendship Tours.

Tuesday, July 18 – Relax on the River. Lunch at the historic Griswold Inn. Explore the beauty of the Connecticut River Valley from the water as you cruise and relax on the River Quest. End the day with time to explore Main Street Essex. Cost is $147pp. Waitlist Only.

Wednesday, September 13 – Lunch at Carmines followed by A Beautiful Noise, the musical based on the life and music of Neil Diamond. Cost is $253pp. A $120 non-refundable deposit will hold your seat with the balance due August 1. Waitlist Only.

Wednesday, December 6 –lunch at the fully decorated Student Prince Café in Springfield, MA, followed by some time at MGM Springfield Casino and a tour of Bright Nights at Forest Park in Springfield, MA, listed as one of the “Top Ten Holiday Happenings in America.” Cost is $125pp. Accepting reservations July 1.

Garden Therapy
Tuesday, June 13 at 10:30 a.m.
Join our friends from the Garden Club of Brookfield once again as we celebrate summer with fresh flowers. The garden club members will bring the flowers and the creativity - you just have to bring the willingness to try something new!
Please register for this event, as space is limited.

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