Study after study continues to show that individuals who feel connected with family and friends and who enjoy a social network within their communities are happier, healthier and more productive. Or, as Barbra Streisand was so fond of singing, "people who need people are the luckiest people in the world!" Now she has research to back her up.

John Cacioppo, psychology professor at the University of Chicago is one of our nation's most respected authorities on loneliness. He recently conducted a study that examined loneliness and isolation, the effects of each on the biology of the brain and how each can initiate brain changes.

"There are toxic effects," said Cacioppo. "When you are isolated from companionship, the brain goes into self-preservation mode."

Who is at risk?

While anyone of any age can experience feelings of loneliness, it is much more common among the older, retired population.

Why? According to Paul Kirwin, associate professor of psychiatry at Yale University, "There are so many losses that happen in this stage of life - of partners, friends, the loss of one's role or sense of purpose - and it has a huge impact on people psychologically."

When you consider that, every day between now and 2030, an average of 10,000 individuals will reach the age of 65, and that a good percentage of them are moving to Florida, the impact of loneliness on the health of our state and our nation has some pretty powerful potential.

What can be done?

Psychologist Guy Winch, author of "Emotional First Aid" explains that, "there are more opportunities to connect than one might realize."


Advantages of social interaction

If alleviating loneliness weren't reason enough to make us more social, finding new and different avenues for interaction can also improve our memory and help keep our brains "in the game" for longer than they might be otherwise. It's true. The cognitive abilities of the human brain do not automatically decline as we grow older. A few of the simplest and most effective ways to increase brain power are aerobic exercise, cognitive training exercises and - yes, you guessed it - maintaining social networks.

Those who remain active through work and volunteer opportunities and who maintain close bonds with others are 24 percent more likely to maintain cognitive function later in life.

You can start
right now

The Council on Aging of St. Johns County can help get you started on the path to improved health!

According to Program Manager Sue Richerson, "people are always amazed at the scope of our services and the range of opportunity available to them through the Council on Aging. Getting involved in volunteer work is a wonderful way to stay connected. The majority of our classes and activities are open to the community and we welcome everyone of every age."

For information about the Council on Aging, call 209-3700 or go to coasjc.com.