Community Workshops Address Social Isolation and Promote Friend Inventory Planning

The MPO Finance Committee convened on May 9, 2024, to discuss the upcoming Utah Elder Justice Conference, focusing on initiatives to combat social isolation among older adults. Emily Allen led the discussion, emphasizing the importance of community workshops designed to empower individuals and organizations to address the issue of social isolation.

Allen highlighted that these workshops are available free of charge and aim to educate participants about the risk factors associated with social isolation. She stressed the need for a shift in perspective, advocating for the creation of a "social plan" alongside traditional financial planning. Allen argued that just as individuals prepare financially for retirement, they should also consider how to maintain social connections as they age.

A key component of the workshops is an activity called the "friend inventory," which encourages participants to assess their social networks. This exercise involves categorizing friends and acquaintances into concentric circles based on the level of closeness and support they provide. The goal is to help individuals identify ways to strengthen their social ties and move acquaintances closer into their inner circle of support.

Allen shared a personal anecdote to illustrate the challenges of overcoming social norms that discourage reaching out to others. She recounted a missed opportunity to offer assistance to a neighbor during a rainstorm, reflecting on the barriers that often prevent people from connecting with those around them.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for attendees to rethink their approach to social connections and to actively participate in the community workshops. Allen's insights underscored the critical need to address social isolation, particularly as it affects the well-being of older adults in Utah. The committee plans to continue developing resources and strategies to foster social engagement within the community.