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(WNY News Now) – New York – Governor Kathy Hochul, alongside Dr. Ruth Westheimer, the state’s first ‘Ambassador to Loneliness,’ releases a heartfelt public service announcement (PSA) urging New Yorkers to combat the pervasive issue of loneliness during the holiday season.
In an effort to address the pressing issue of loneliness among New Yorkers, Governor Kathy Hochul has partnered with Dr. Ruth Westheimer, recently appointed as the state’s inaugural ‘Ambassador to Loneliness.’ The duo released a poignant public service announcement, which will be widely circulated on social media platforms, emphasizing the importance of collective action to alleviate social isolation during the holiday season.
Governor Hochul expressed her commitment to eradicating the loneliness epidemic, citing its adverse effects on the health of seniors, children, and individuals of all ages. Citing a recent study by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, the announcement highlighted that over a third of adults aged 45 or older grapple with loneliness, while nearly a quarter of those 65 or older experience social isolation. The study underscored the severe health risks associated with loneliness, equating its impact on premature death to that of smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity.
The PSA provides practical tips for individuals experiencing social isolation during the holidays and urges all New Yorkers to reach out to friends, neighbors, and loved ones who may be spending the season alone. Governor Hochul emphasized the availability of resources for those struggling with social isolation and the state’s commitment to raising awareness.
New York is actively taking steps to build age-friendly communities and enhance mental health care, exemplified by the development of the state’s first Master Plan for Aging. The plan, currently in progress through collaboration between the New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) and the Department of Health, aims to recommend age-friendly policies that influence community development and transportation, fostering social participation as individuals age.
NYSOFA, with a 50-year track record in combating loneliness among older adults, has implemented innovative programs such as animatronic pet initiatives and online learning partnerships, showcasing promising results in reducing loneliness and isolation. Recent legislation passed in November directs NYSOFA to conduct a comprehensive study on adults in naturally occurring retirement communities (NORCs), focusing on social isolation and loneliness, with findings to be submitted to the Governor and legislature.
In a multifaceted approach, the state continues to explore avenues to create a supportive environment for all New Yorkers, emphasizing the importance of community engagement, connection, and proactive measures to combat loneliness, particularly during the holiday season.
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