Many older adults in metro Atlanta struggle with loneliness and social isolation, especially those living in suburban areas not designed for easy community connection. This issue only grows as people age, lose loved ones, or experience declining mobility. However, the organizations that work with older adults are taking efforts to address this problem.
One solution comes from A.G. Rhodes, a senior care provider with more than 120 years of providing services in the Atlanta area. They recently opened a new facility in Marietta, designed specifically for dementia patients. The facility offers each resident their own room, but the design encourages social interaction in shared spaces. This approach aims to reduce loneliness while improving care.
Becky Kurtz, from the Atlanta Regional Commission, highlights how even seniors living in close proximity, like in senior high-rises, can feel isolated if they don’t have the right opportunities to connect. Creating spaces and programs for seniors to engage with each other is key. She said while systemic changes like making neighborhoods more walkable will take time, there are immediate solutions like senior centers and volunteer opportunities.
Programs like the Atlanta Regional Commission’s One2One initiative are helping, offering simple ways for seniors to stay connected by setting up phone regularly scheduled phone conversations with volunteers.
Studies show that reducing loneliness can significantly improve mental health, and even reduce the risk of dementia.
Christopher Alston contributed to this report.
