Overcoming Loneliness: How Joining a Community Transformed a 70-Year-Old's Life

Rick Grossman's Journey: Overcoming Loneliness through Community

Rick Grossman, 70, has spent most of his life battling loneliness due to multiple job relocations and struggles within the LGBTQIA community. His challenges were compounded by the nature of his job, which took him to various states across the US. Additionally, being a gay man on the autistic spectrum made it difficult for him to find a community where he felt he could truly belong.

A Turning Point: Discovering Senior Villages

About three years ago, Grossman's life took a positive turn when he discovered the concept of senior villages. Joining one allowed him to form close friendships and rebuild a sense of community. Instead of paying for a traditional retirement community, senior villages offer older adults the flexibility to live where they choose while still benefiting from the network's resources and activities.

Community Support and Investments

The senior villages are sustained by grants, donations, and membership fees ranging from $150 to $425 a year, dependent on the level of involvement. As a member of this community, Grossman found the cost to be a valuable investment, providing him with a support network and access to a variety of activities, ultimately helping him combat the isolation he had felt for so long.

Addressing the Loneliness Epidemic

Loneliness has affected people of all ages, and the Covid-19 pandemic has exacerbated this issue. US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy has compared loneliness and isolation to an "epidemic," highlighting the damaging effects on physical and mental health. Grossman emphasized the importance of addressing loneliness and isolation, especially among older adults, who often face limited options for forming new connections.

The Need for Connection and Finding Solutions

Grossman's story sheds light on the importance of community and connection, especially for older adults. Addressing this need is crucial, and other innovative solutions, such as regular meetings at senior centers, offer opportunities for social interaction. This highlights the necessity for increased government attention and initiatives to combat the loneliness epidemic among older adults.

Overcoming Isolation: The Transformative Impact of Community

Grossman's story serves as a powerful testament to the transformative impact of joining a community. By finding a sense of belonging and forming meaningful connections, he has been able to counteract the isolation and loneliness that once defined his life. His journey highlights the potential for community-based initiatives to create positive change and combat the loneliness epidemic among older adults.

Do you have a story of overcoming loneliness? Share your experiences with this reporter at asheffey@businessinsider.com.

Editor's note: February 5, 2024 — An earlier version of this story misstated senior villages' funding sources. They are supported by grants, donations, and membership dues