Last month, we explored how simple home modifications — such as improving lighting, installing grab bars and reducing tripping hazards — can make it easier to age safely and independently at home. While these changes are an important part of aging in place, they are only one piece of the puzzle. Equally important is something that can’t be installed or purchased: strong social connections. Aging in place is often defined as remaining in the home you love for as long as possible. But true independence doesn’t mean doing everything alone. Staying connected with family, friends, neighbors and the community provides the support, encouragement and sense of belonging that help older adults continue living safely and confidently in their own homes. Research continues to show that social connection plays a significant role in healthy aging. In 2023, the U.S. surgeon general issued an advisory on the nation’s epidemic of loneliness and isolation, reporting that chronic social isolation is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, depression, anxiety, cognitive decline and premature death. Just as regular physical activity supports a healthy body, meaningful relationships support emotional and mental well-being. Strong social connections also encourage healthier daily habits. Meeting a friend for a walk increases physical activity. Attending a fitness class or community event provides opportunities to stay active while meeting new people. Volunteering or participating in a favorite hobby creates a sense of purpose, which has been linked to better mental health and overall quality of life. These everyday interactions may seem small, but over time they contribute to healthier, more active lifestyles. Perhaps most importantly, a strong support network can make aging in place safer. Friends and neighbors often notice subtle changes that might otherwise go unnoticed, such as missed routines, memory concerns or changes in mobility. They can check in during severe weather, lend a hand with small household tasks or simply provide reassurance through regular conversations. Knowing there is someone nearby to call can help older adults feel more confident living independently while giving loved ones greater peace of mind. The good news is that building these connections doesn’t require a large social circle. Research suggests the quality of relationships matters more than the number of people you know. Even regular conversations with neighbors, weekly phone calls with family members or participation in a single community activity can reduce feelings of loneliness and strengthen a sense of belonging. Mt. Lebanon offers a variety of opportunities for older adults to stay socially connected while pursuing hobbies and lifelong interests. The Mt. Lebanon Recreation Department’s Lebo Lunch Brunch meets monthly at the Recreation Center, giving older adults an opportunity to enjoy lunch, entertainment and conversation with fellow residents. For those who enjoy creative activities, the Mt. Lebanon Public Library’s Crafters Group meets on the first and third Wednesdays of each month in the Learning Lab, where participants work on fiber arts and fine arts projects while connecting with others who share similar interests. The library also hosts programs that encourage learning and discussion. The monthly World War II Era Discussion Group brings together history enthusiasts to explore historical campaigns and their lasting impact, while Travel Talks features community-led presentations where participants share travel experiences and discover new destinations. For those looking to reduce stress while meeting others, the library’s Daytime Sound Bath offers guided relaxation and meditation in a welcoming environment. Whether your interests include history, art, travel, wellness or simply enjoying conversation over lunch, these programs provide meaningful opportunities to stay engaged in the community. These activities do more than fill a calendar. They help foster friendships, establish routines and create a sense of belonging. Regular participation in community programs makes it easier to build relationships with neighbors and fellow residents, creating a support network that contributes to emotional well-being and helps people age safely and independently at home. One of the best ways to support aging in place is to build your network before you need it. Introduce yourself to a new neighbor, reconnect with an old friend or consider joining a local class or volunteer opportunity. These relationships often become valuable sources of encouragement and support during life’s unexpected challenges. A trusted neighbor might collect your mail while you’re away, a friend could offer a ride to an appointment, or someone from your walking group may simply brighten your day with a friendly conversation. Healthy aging is about much more than maintaining physical health. It is also about creating a life that feels connected, purposeful and supported. The strongest communities are those where neighbors know one another, families stay involved and people of all ages look out for each other. These everyday connections not only enrich our lives but also make it easier to remain safe, independent and engaged in the place we proudly call home.
Last month, we explored how simple home modifications — such as improving lighting, installing grab bars and reducing tripping hazards — can make it easier to age safely and independently at home. While these changes are an important part of aging in place, they are only one piece of the puzzle. Equally important is something that can’t be installed or purchased: strong social connections. Aging in place is often defined as remaining in the home you love for as long as possible. But true independence doesn’t mean doing everything alone. Staying connected with family, friends, neighbors and the community provides the support, encouragement and sense of belonging that help older adults continue living safely and confidently in their own homes. Research continues to show that social connection plays a significant role in healthy aging. In 2023, the U.S. surgeon general issued an advisory on the nation’s epidemic of loneliness and isolation, reporting that chronic social isolation is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, depression, anxiety, cognitive decline and premature death. Just as regular physical activity supports a healthy body, meaningful relationships support emotional and mental well-being. Strong social connections also encourage healthier daily habits. Meeting a friend for a walk increases physical activity. Attending a fitness class or community event provides opportunities to stay active while meeting new people. Volunteering or participating in a favorite hobby creates a sense of purpose, which has been linked to better mental health and overall quality of life. These everyday interactions may seem small, but over time they contribute to healthier, more active lifestyles. Perhaps most importantly, a strong support network can make aging in place safer. Friends and neighbors often notice subtle changes that might otherwise go unnoticed, such as missed routines, memory concerns or changes in mobility. They can check in during severe weather, lend a hand with small household tasks or simply provide reassurance through regular conversations. Knowing there is someone nearby to call can help older adults feel more confident living independently while giving loved ones greater peace of mind. The good news is that building these connections doesn’t require a large social circle. Research suggests the quality of relationships matters more than the number of people you know. Even regular conversations with neighbors, weekly phone calls with family members or participation in a single community activity can reduce feelings of loneliness and strengthen a sense of belonging. Mt. Lebanon offers a variety of opportunities for older adults to stay socially connected while pursuing hobbies and lifelong interests. The Mt. Lebanon Recreation Department’s Lebo Lunch Brunch meets monthly at the Recreation Center, giving older adults an opportunity to enjoy lunch, entertainment and conversation with fellow residents. For those who enjoy creative activities, the Mt. Lebanon Public Library’s Crafters Group meets on the first and third Wednesdays of each month in the Learning Lab, where participants work on fiber arts and fine arts projects while connecting with others who share similar interests. The library also hosts programs that encourage learning and discussion. The monthly World War II Era Discussion Group brings together history enthusiasts to explore historical campaigns and their lasting impact, while Travel Talks features community-led presentations where participants share travel experiences and discover new destinations. For those looking to reduce stress while meeting others, the library’s Daytime Sound Bath offers guided relaxation and meditation in a welcoming environment. Whether your interests include history, art, travel, wellness or simply enjoying conversation over lunch, these programs provide meaningful opportunities to stay engaged in the community. These activities do more than fill a calendar. They help foster friendships, establish routines and create a sense of belonging. Regular participation in community programs makes it easier to build relationships with neighbors and fellow residents, creating a support network that contributes to emotional well-being and helps people age safely and independently at home. One of the best ways to support aging in place is to build your network before you need it. Introduce yourself to a new neighbor, reconnect with an old friend or consider joining a local class or volunteer opportunity. These relationships often become valuable sources of encouragement and support during life’s unexpected challenges. A trusted neighbor might collect your mail while you’re away, a friend could offer a ride to an appointment, or someone from your walking group may simply brighten your day with a friendly conversation. Healthy aging is about much more than maintaining physical health. It is also about creating a life that feels connected, purposeful and supported. The strongest communities are those where neighbors know one another, families stay involved and people of all ages look out for each other. These everyday connections not only enrich our lives but also make it easier to remain safe, independent and engaged in the place we proudly call home.

Healthy Living: The Social Side of Aging in Place

Strong relationships, community involvement and neighborhood connections help older adults remain healthy, independent and engaged at home By Kate Sheets

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Last month, we explored how simple home modifications — such as improving lighting, installing grab bars and reducing tripping hazards — can make it easier to age safely and independently at home. While these changes are an important part of aging in place, they are only one piece of the puzzle. Equally important is something that can’t be installed or purchased: strong social connections.

Aging in place is often defined as remaining in the home you love for as long as possible. But true independence doesn’t mean doing everything alone. Staying connected with family, friends, neighbors and the community provides the support, encouragement and sense of belonging that help older adults continue living safely and confidently in their own homes.

Research continues to show that social connection plays a significant role in healthy aging. In 2023, the U.S. surgeon general issued an advisory on the nation’s epidemic of loneliness and isolation, reporting that chronic social isolation is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, depression, anxiety, cognitive decline and premature death. Just as regular physical activity supports a healthy body, meaningful relationships support emotional and mental well-being.

Strong social connections also encourage healthier daily habits. Meeting a friend for a walk increases physical activity. Attending a fitness class or community event provides opportunities to stay active while meeting new people. Volunteering or participating in a favorite hobby creates a sense of purpose, which has been linked to better mental health and overall quality of life. These everyday interactions may seem small, but over time they contribute to healthier, more active lifestyles.

Perhaps most importantly, a strong support network can make aging in place safer. Friends and neighbors often notice subtle changes that might otherwise go unnoticed, such as missed routines, memory concerns or changes in mobility. They can check in during severe weather, lend a hand with small household tasks or simply provide reassurance through regular conversations. Knowing there is someone nearby to call can help older adults feel more confident living independently while giving loved ones greater peace of mind.

The good news is that building these connections doesn’t require a large social circle. Research suggests the quality of relationships matters more than the number of people you know. Even regular conversations with neighbors, weekly phone calls with family members or participation in a single community activity can reduce feelings of loneliness and strengthen a sense of belonging.

Mt. Lebanon offers a variety of opportunities for older adults to stay socially connected while pursuing hobbies and lifelong interests. The Mt. Lebanon Recreation Department’s Lebo Lunch Brunch meets monthly at the Recreation Center, giving older adults an opportunity to enjoy lunch, entertainment and conversation with fellow residents. For those who enjoy creative activities, the Mt. Lebanon Public Library’s Crafters Group meets on the first and third Wednesdays of each month in the Learning Lab, where participants work on fiber arts and fine arts projects while connecting with others who share similar interests.

The library also hosts programs that encourage learning and discussion. The monthly World War II Era Discussion Group brings together history enthusiasts to explore historical campaigns and their lasting impact, while Travel Talks features community-led presentations where participants share travel experiences and discover new destinations. For those looking to reduce stress while meeting others, the library’s Daytime Sound Bath offers guided relaxation and meditation in a welcoming environment. Whether your interests include history, art, travel, wellness or simply enjoying conversation over lunch, these programs provide meaningful opportunities to stay engaged in the community.

These activities do more than fill a calendar. They help foster friendships, establish routines and create a sense of belonging. Regular participation in community programs makes it easier to build relationships with neighbors and fellow residents, creating a support network that contributes to emotional well-being and helps people age safely and independently at home.

One of the best ways to support aging in place is to build your network before
you need it. Introduce yourself to a new neighbor, reconnect with an old friend or consider joining a local class or volunteer opportunity. These relationships often become valuable sources of encouragement and support during life’s unexpected challenges. A trusted neighbor might collect your mail while you’re away, a friend could offer a ride to an appointment, or someone from your walking group may simply brighten your day with a friendly conversation.

Healthy aging is about much more than maintaining physical health. It is also about creating a life that feels connected, purposeful and supported. The strongest communities are those where neighbors know one another, families stay involved and people of all ages look out for each other. These everyday connections not only enrich our lives but also make it easier to remain safe, independent and engaged in the place we proudly call home. 

Healthy Habit of the Month: 

This month, make it a goal to strengthen one relationship each week. Invite a neighbor for coffee, call a family member you haven’t spoken with recently, attend a program at the Mt. Lebanon Public Library or participate in a Recreation Department activity. Even small moments of connection can boost your mood, reduce feelings of loneliness and encourage healthy habits such as walking and staying active. Building relationships today creates a stronger support network for tomorrow — one of the most valuable investments you can make to help you age safely, confidently and independently in the place you call home.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Physical activity guidelines for older adults.
Website: www.cdc.gov/physical-activity-basics/guidelines/older-adults.html

Holt-Lunstad, J., Smith, T. B., & Layton, J. B. (2010). Social relationships and mortality risk: A meta-analytic review. PLOS Medicine, 7(7), e1000316.
Website: doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmed.1000316

National Institute on Aging. (2024). Aging in place: Growing older at home.
Website: www.nia.nih.gov/health/aging-place-growing-older-home

National Institute on Aging. (2024). Participating in activities you enjoy as you age.
Website: www.nia.nih.gov/health/participating-activities-you-enjoy-you-age

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2023). Our epidemic of loneliness and isolation: The U.S. Surgeon General’s advisory on the healing effects of social connection and community.
Website: www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory.pdf

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