It was Friday the 13th, but the Fall Festival was anything but scary. Instead, it was a lively gathering of hundreds of seniors who live within four of National CORE’s Fontana apartment communities. The event’s theme was “Around The World” and featured food and entertainment from Africa, China, Cuba, and Italy.
The smiles on residents’ faces were priceless.
These seniors, many of whom are low-income residents with unique health challenges and limited family contact, enjoyed every moment of the festival.
One resident and her husband were savoring noodles in a Chinese take-out box as they told me they had just come from Italy, across the street.
“We moved in a year ago and love this place,” she said. “The Fall Festival is a great chance to get out of our apartment, walk a little bit, and visit with others.”
Although the event was an uplifting treat for those in attendance, what is scary is the number of American seniors living in isolation. A2012 study by the AARP Foundation concluded that as many as 17% of Americans aged 50+ suffer from social isolation. That is over 16 million residents who suffer from reduced quality of life, physical health, and mental wellbeing. The study noted that primary risk factors for isolation include living alone, impaired mobility, socioeconomic status, a disability, and unsafe neighborhoods.
That is precisely why events like the Fall Festival and ongoing social activities for seniors are much more important than simply the fun factor. It is well documented that social contact and mental stimulation are key to reducing blood pressure, depression, Alzheimer’s, and arthritis, and improving healthy behaviors and emotional well-being.
In addition to events such as the Fall Festival, Hope Through Housing’s dedicated team coordinates ongoing services and activities for vulnerable seniors, from health screenings and fitness classes to nutritional support and computer classes.
“Today, I saw residents who otherwise never come out,” shared Lynda Roman, the Service Coordinator who planned the event. “It’s about giving them something they wouldn’t be able to afford or experience. They’re already asking about next year’s theme.”
For more information about Hope Through Housing’s work with seniors and families in need, visit www.HTHF.org.
