AARP offers resources to combat loneliness

AARP Maine has compiled helpful resources for Mainers who may experience loneliness this winter, as well as a resource guide for caregivers.
Even in the best of times, social isolation is a problem. In Maine, more than 135,000 people 50 and older live alone and are at a higher risk of experiencing social isolation. In addition, many Mainers currently do not have access to high-speed internet and are left with little or no connection to family and friends. Now, the COVID-19 pandemic has made it clear that personal connections are both immensely valuable and sorely missed.
Let’s work together to prevent Mainers from becoming socially isolated this winter! We may have all scaled back our personal interactions to stay safe, but that doesn’t mean we have to be alone. Check out the AARP guide inserted inside this newspaper, and you’ll discover resources to address social isolation including AARP Friendly Voice calls, technology trainings, volunteer opportunities, and more.
We have also included a resource guide for caregivers. With many organizations offering different types of help and services, it can be a challenge to sort out the specific type of help or services best suited for your needs.
No matter where you are in the continuum of caregiving — starting to plan, helping to coordinate a big move, or taking care of a family member in your home–this resource guide will provide a starting point to help you find the resources and support you need throughout your caregiving journey. The goal of this guide is to help people get the type of assistance they need, including government and nonprofit resources both in-person and online.
Visit our website at aarp.org/me, where we post health and long-term care resources, news and updates, events, and more. If you have any questions, email us at me@aarp.org or give us a call at 866-554-5380.