HONOLULU (HI Now) - Humans are social creatures by nature, and staying connected with others is essential to our well-being. For kupuna (older adults), social isolation is not just a matter of loneliness—it’s a significant health risk. Studies show that prolonged isolation can shorten a person’s life by up to seven years, an effect comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Without meaningful interactions or a sense of purpose, kupuna may experience declining mental and physical health.
With Valentine’s Day approaching, AARP’s charitable program, Wish of a Lifetime, is stepping up to combat kupuna loneliness and isolation. Through their initiative, volunteers are distributing thousands of roses and handwritten cards to kupuna in care homes, nursing homes, and through programs like Meals on Wheels. In total, 8,000 roses will be given out statewide, with 1,000 roses distributed by AARP volunteers alone.
If you didn’t sign up in time to receive a rose, don’t worry! You can still make a difference. Consider calling, visiting, or sending a card to a kupuna in your life. A small gesture can brighten someone’s day and remind them they are loved and valued. You can even take part in the Cupid Patrol program by creating a virtual Valentine’s Day card at wishofalifetime.org/cupid.
Maintaining social connections isn’t just about emotional well-being—it also plays a crucial role in keeping the brain healthy. At AARP, we emphasize the importance of staying mentally and physically active as you age. Social engagement, along with other factors like a healthy diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management, are key components of brain health.
To support kupuna in staying sharp and engaged, AARP is offering a series of free in-person and online workshops on brain health. These include:
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- The Six Pillars of Brain Health Workshop – Happening this Saturday in Hilo, this session will cover essential strategies for maintaining cognitive function.
- Brain Health Events on Maui – Join in-person workshops focused on diet, sleep, and brain function.
- Virtual Brain Health Webinars – Learn about brain-healthy diets, the science of sleep, and mindfulness techniques.
- Mindfulness and Brain Fitness Classes – In March, mindfulness instructor Carl Powell from Maui will lead virtual Body and Brain Fitness classes every Tuesday at 10 a.m.
- Dementia Caregiver Support Event – Taking place on March 1 in Maui, this in-person event is designed to help those caring for loved ones with dementia.
You don’t need to be an AARP member or meet a specific age requirement to participate in these free workshops. However, pre-registration is required to reserve a spot and to receive Zoom links for virtual sessions. Visit aarp.org/local or the AARP Hawai’i Facebook page to explore upcoming events and sign up.
This Valentine’s Day, let’s make a conscious effort to connect with kupuna and remind them they are cherished. Whether through a simple phone call, a handwritten note, or attending a brain health workshop, your involvement can make a real difference in their lives.
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