The resources and engagement opportunities listed below are here to help you identify ways you can be more engaged, learn about the risk factors of social isolation and loneliness, and a link to the social engagement opportunities map. If you have any questions about these resources, please contact us.
Ways to Stay Engaged
Check out this list below of suggested services and programs to combat isolation for at-risk individuals or find additional ways to get engaged:
Area Agencies on Aging
Area Agencies on Aging are regional hubs for resources and support for older adults and their caregivers. They can provide referrals to programs such as telephone reassurance, congregate nutrition, volunteer opportunities as well as to services. Area Agencies on Aging can also help direct you to a senior center, which is also a great resource. More information on senior centers can be found below! You can visit this site above to find your local Area Agency on Aging.
Public Libraries
The public library system in NC offers several ways to engage. The programs and services offered vary across the state. Having a current library card can provide you access to books and magazines online, learning a foreign language, researching your genealogy, and virtual programming to learn a new skill or hobby. Ask about large print materials, delivery of library books, or assistance with getting set up to listen to books online via a tablet or iPad. Visit this site to find your local branch.
Cooperative Extension
NC Cooperative Extension has a local office in each county in North Carolina. They offer a wide variety of educational classes both in-person and online. Examples of current classes would be vegetable gardening, flower gardening, cooking, arts and crafts and photography. Visit this site to find your local Cooperative Extension branch.
Social Bridging Program
The Social Bridging Program assist individuals that are currently experiencing social isolation or loneliness, are in need of technical assistance, are in search of resources in their community, or would benefit from regular social interaction over the phone. Visit this link to get connected.
Health Promotion Programs
Senior centers, YMCA’s and local recreation centers across North Carolina offer programs to lower the risk of chronic diseases and falls, improve long-term effects of chronic diseases or falls, manage diabetes and help improve your balance. Several organizations have transitioned these programs from an in-person setting to an online setting. Visit this site to find a class.
Senior Center Programs
Staying connected and engaged in activities is important to the physical and mental well-being of everyone. One way for older adults to do this is through one of NC’s multipurpose senior centers. Senior centers have long been a great community resource that provide services, information and education on additional aging resources, as well as offering a variety of health, fitness, and creative art activity classes. Learn more about the impact of NC’s senior centers here!
Find a Senior Center
To learn more about any of these resources or other ways to combat social isolation in your local community, find your local senior center by using this map.
Virtual Event Opportunities
Staying connected and engaged in activities is important for our physical and mental well-being. Even when you aren’t able to get out, joining a class online can sometimes help you feel connected to others. It can be fun to try something new such as a line dance class or a Mindful Meditation Breathing group. Some participants really enjoy “meeting” people from all over the state. Visit this page to learn more about virtual social engagement opportunities that you can join.
Emotional Support
If you’d like to speak with someone immediately due to feeling of loneliness or the impact COVID-19 has had on you in any way, contact Hope4NC now.
The stress of life, especially during the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, can feel overwhelming. But you don’t have to handle it on your own. With support and someone to listen, you can find a way through. Hope4NC is here to connect you with the help you need, whenever you need it. Call us at 1-855-587-3463 24/7 for free and confidential emotional support, counseling referrals and community resources. Hope4NC includes a Crisis Counseling Program tailored for COVID-19, which will provide immediate crisis counseling services to individuals affected by the ongoing public health crisis.
Additional Social Engagement Resources
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Do you have additional resources you would like to add? Please contact us here.