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Great Ways To Combat Social Isolation
Use technology to connect with loved ones

E ically and mentally healthy

and connected to their com-
ven before COVID-
19 limited social
Rewards Mastercard from
contact with friends, family munities. The AARP Essential
and colleagues, many adults Barclays is helping fund the
experienced loneliness and foundation’s work to increase
depression due to limited social connection with dona-
contact with others. Now, a tions based on new accounts
year after the pandemic and eligible purchases, up to
forced many people into $1 million annually.
even greater levels of isola- A little creativity and a com-
tion, the issue of social isola- mitment to filling time pro-
tion is especially prevalent in ductively can help reduce the
Americans over the age of 50. strain of being alone until it is safer to resume social ac-

Despite the physical implications of a global pandemic, tivities.
research shows the mental health stakes are high, too. A
nationwide survey, commissioned by Barclays, found
that half of Americans over the age of 50 said the isola-
tion from their friends and family has been more chal-
lenging than concerns over health risks they may face.
Social isolation has provided plenty of time for Ameri-
cans to reflect on their priorities. The majority of Ameri-
cans surveyed (90%) have reevaluated their post age-50
goals and put spending more time with family at the top
of their lists. In fact, the most common first thing SO-plus
Americans will do once COVID-19 is over is to see and
spend time with their families 41%). Use technology to connect with loved ones.

"While restrictions are beginning to ease, many older Video chats and traditional phone calls can help you feel
adults are still isolated from friends and family, and that connected even "when you can't be together in person.
takes a toll on their mental well-being" said Lisa Marsh While a drop-in call can be fun, consider arranging regu-
Ryerson, president of the AARP Foundation. "We must lar visits with kids and grandkids. If you schedule calls
do all we can to help older adults, who have suffered throughout the week, you will have something regular to
greatly during COVID-19, strengthen the social connec- look forward to and can benefit from a check-in that
tions that are so essential to their ability, to lead longer, affirms everyone is healthy and safe.
healthier lives."
Make time for physical activity. Staying closer to home
For example, AARP Foundation's Connect Affect platform may mean you are not getting the exercise you once did,
equips older adults with the tools they need to stay phys- but it is important for your health to stay active. Regular-

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