This year’s forum, A Commitment to Action: Countering Social Isolation and Loneliness, grew out of the commission’s concerns about the consequences of social distancing brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. “In many cases, social distancing has led to isolation and loneliness, problems that existed prior to the health emergency but were often made much worse,” said Commission chair Barbara Selter. “Social isolation and loneliness can lead to diminished mental and physical health of older adults.”
The forum will challenge the community to renew its commitment to working on behalf of all vulnerable and underserved older adults in Montgomery County. The need for advocacy and action will be highlighted by national experts and presentations will cover topics such as life transitions that lead to social isolation and loneliness, interventions such as intergenerational programming and the creative use of technology.
Speakers will include:
- Elizabeth A. Necka, PhD, program director, National Institute on Aging
- Lynda Flowers, JD, MSN, RN, AARP Public Policy Institute
- Lori Marks, PhD, MS, BA, University of Maryland, and Link Generations
- Scott Code, senior director of LeadingAge CAST Team
- Matthew Lee Smith, PhD, MPH, author of “Combatting Social Isolation Among Older Adults in a Time of Physical Distancing: The COVID-19 Social Connectivity Paradox”
The older adult population of Montgomery County, Maryland is rising at an unprecedented rate. The COA advocates for the health, safety, and well-being of the County's older residents. The Commission supports both safety net services for frail older adults and programs to meet the interests and needs of older adults thriving in the community and works to identify significant issues where its voice on the needs of older adults can make a difference.
To register for the free event, visit https://tinyurl.com/8s425b29. For more information, contact Tremayne Jones at (240)777-1120 or email tremayne.jones@montgomerycountymd.gov.
