JANUARY 2026
S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N | GREENWICH TIME | NEW HAVEN REGISTER | NEW CANAAN ADVERTISER DARIEN TIMES | WILTON BULLETIN | RIDGEFIELD PRESS | WESTPORT NEWS
HOBBIES that get you out & about
T
he threat posed by social isolation has been known to medical researchers and health care professionals for years, but the issue gained wider attention during the pandemic. Restrictions on social gatherings during the pandemic opened millions of people’s eyes to the ill effects of social isolation, and while that threat proved temporary for the majority of people across the globe, many seniors continue to live largely isolated lives. According to the Mayo Clinic, depression, anxiety, increased risk of suicide, and various chronic health problems are some of the outcomes associated with loneliness. That’s a troubling assessment that becomes even more disconcerting when considering a general
decline in socialization as evidenced by the 2021 American Perspectives Survey. Survey participants indicated they have fewer close friendships than they once did, speak with their friends less often and rely less on friends for personal support. That’s challenging for adults of all ages, but it can be especially difficult for aging adults, who may be dealing with the loss of a spouse or other close confidantes they would otherwise rely on when confronting personal problems. Hobbies that promote socialization can help aging adults reestablish friendships and build new ones, paying dividends that can have a profound impact on their overall health. With that in mind, adults who feel as though their social circles are shrinking in mid-life or in retirement can look to these activities as means to rebuilding their social lives. SEE HOBBIES ON PAGE 3
ENGAGE IN SOCIAL GATHERINGS TO AVOID ISOLATION