24 OP Winter Senior Newsletter

PATHLIGHTS

Aging alone is an increasingly common experience for older adults, the prevalence is influenced by factors including longer life expectancies and societal shifts that impact family dynamics and support structures. While some enjoy the peace that solitude can bring, for many, reality includes bouts of loneliness that can have serious physical and emotional consequences. To support older adults who are aging alone, understanding the impacts of loneliness and developing strategies to counteract them is essential. Loneliness can increase the risk of dementia by 50% and increase the risk of hospitalization by 68%. Common warning signs can include weight loss or poor dietary decisions, lack of interest in socializing, skipping or forgetting medication or hoarding, clutter and disrepair in the home. The key to combating loneliness is intentional connection and community-building. Whether through social groups, technology, pets or volunteer work, there are paths to make aging independently an enriching chapter of life. Proactive engagement, coupled with awareness and supportive resources, can transform the experience of aging alone from one of isolation to one of resilience and connection AGING ALONE: COMBATING LONELINESS AND EMBRACING CONNECTION

For more than 49 years, we have guided individuals, caregivers, families and friends along the best path to aging – providing resources, advocacy programs and services needed to live with independence and dignity in the community. Pathlights keeps people connected with events, in-person and virtual. Add monthly support groups to your schedule and visit Pathlights.org often to find out about new events. There is no charge for these events. Visit Pathlights.org or call us at (708) 361-0219. Please call us Monday – Friday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. CONTACT

ABOUT

Pathlights, formerly known as PLOWS Council on Aging, helps navigate and celebrate aging in the Southwest Suburbs of Cook County.

*The Village of Orland Park includes information from Pathlights, a senior service organization, in this quarterly Senior Newsletter for the benefit of our residents. It’s important to note that the content, programs, or services offered by Pathlights are independent and not directly overseen or endorsed by the Village of Orland Park.

The Village of Orland Park assumes no responsibility or liability for the accuracy, completeness or effectiveness of the information provided by Pathlights. Individuals are encouraged to independently verify and assess the suitability of any programs or services mentioned in this newsletter.

For specific inquiries or concerns related to Pathlights’ offerings, please contact Pathlights directly at (708) 361-0219.

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