Guest Column

By Laurie Goganzer
President & CEO, YMCA of the Jersey Shore and Ocean County YMCA

“To care for those who cared for us is one of the highest honors.” This quotation from author and public speaker Tia Walker is more than an inspirational statement. It’s a call to action – one that’s become increasingly critical as the number of Americans aged 65 and older will more than double over the next 40 years, according to the Urban Institute.

One of the major risk factors among senior citizens is social isolation. When left unaddressed, it has a measurable impact on quality of life. The National Institute for Health reports that social isolation has been associated with an increased risk of premature mortality from all causes.

This is not just a national problem. It’s a local one. Ocean County is home to the second largest senior population in New Jersey, with 23.3% of its residents aged 65 and older. Monmouth County isn’t far behind at 20.4%.

The message is clear: As a community, we need to rise to the occasion and meet the needs of our aging population, especially those who are vulnerable due to physical, mental, social or financial factors.

Connection, Community and Accessibility

The YMCA of the Jersey Shore understands how critical this mission is. We offer many programs designed specifically for seniors to promote physical well-being and social connection, including:

• Senior Wellness
• Veterans Pathway
• Diabetes and Chronic Disease Prevention
• LIVESTRONG Cancer Support
• Senior Aquatics

These programs not only get seniors moving. They get them out of the house and give them something to look forward to. I know we’re making a difference when I hear stories from our staff - stories about senior members checking in to the same class every week, laughing with friends, making new connections. They’re not just getting through the day, they’re living life to the fullest.

Last year, YMCA of the USA President and CEO Suzanne McCormick shared the results of a study conducted in partnership with NORC of the University of Chicago. The study found that older adults who visit YMCA facilities and participate in our programs showed significant increases in overall well-being and social connectedness.

We also understand many seniors live within a strict financial budget. Fortunately, we’re able to offer many of our senior programs to our members for free. The Y also offers a membership discount for retired veterans and seniors, and members of eligible Medicare and Medicaid insurance plans can receive a no-cost membership.

This wouldn’t be possible without grant funding, partnerships with organizations like Hackensack Meridian Health and the generous support of the larger community.

Beyond Four Walls

We’ve always wanted to expand the level of support for seniors beyond the walls of our facilities. Thanks to our recent merger with Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey (CVCJ), we now offer a new array of services to seniors and can reach a greater proportion of vulnerable older adults, particularly in Ocean County.

Offerings such as transportation to medical appointments, grocery shopping assistance, friendly visits, therapy dogs, reassurance calls and other practical services reduce social isolation and improve quality of life while preserving dignity and independence.

But there’s more work to be done. Support services for isolated seniors often rely on volunteers. Given the fast-growing senior population at the Jersey Shore, there’s a constant shortage of help. If we don’t work together to close the gap, too many isolated older adults won’t receive the care and attention they deserve.

Let’s Rise to the Occasion Together

As Tia Walker so eloquently stated, it is truly an honor to care for those who have cared for us. It’s incumbent upon all of us to step up and take action.

This responsibility spans generations. Younger volunteers are a source of energy and spirit, while active older adults dedicated to helping their vulnerable peers foster a sense of camaraderie and inspiration. We are all called to action.

Together we can combat social isolation and make the Jersey Shore a place where seniors grow closer, stronger and feel like a valued part of the community.

Laurie Goganzer is president and CEO of the YMCA of the Jersey Shore and the Ocean County YMCA, which together deliver youth development, healthy living and social service programs to nearly 65,000 people in central New Jersey communities. Learn more about the programs and services supporting older adults and how you can make a difference in combating senior isolation at www.ymcanj.org.