Wish of a Lifetime from AARP’s 11th Annual Cupid Crew Underway to Combat Social Isolation

Wish of a Lifetime from AARP’s Cupid Crew and AARP Hawai`i are delivering more than 6,400 roses and 800 hand-made Valentine’s Day cards to kupuna on Oahu, Maui and Hawai`i island. It’s part of a national effort to deliver more than 170,000 roses and 250,000 cards to send love and deliver cards and roses to older adults, fostering intergenerational connections with those who may be at risk for social isolation.

"Now in its 11^th year, Cupid Crew has impacted over 750,000 older adults throughout the country, something that is especially important during a holiday that is all about love and connection," said Tom Wagenlander, vice president and executive director, Wish of a Lifetime from AARP. "I encourage everyone to say hello, send a card, deliver a rose, or call someone in their neighborhood experiencing isolation. Your small gesture can greatly impact how much love and community they feel."

No matter the age, we all need connection to thrive physically and emotionally. The continuing problem of social isolation threatens the health and mental well-being of millions of people in the U.S. Through Cupid Crew, Wish of a Lifetime encourages people of all ages, in communities both big and small, to help isolated older adults feel more connected and loved.

AARP Hawai`i volunteers on Oahu, Maui and Hawai`i Island have been creating hundreds of Valentine’s Day cards, which will be delivered to seniors at senior centers, living facilities and through Meals on Wheels programs.

“Valentine’s Day is such a special time of year and we want to make sure that our seniors are loved,” said Suzanne Chun Oakland, program coordinator at Lanakila Multi-Purpose Senior Center, a program of Catholic Charities Hawai`i.

“Our volunteers and community partners are excited to participate in this effort to bring love and social connection to kupuna in nursing homes, care homes and living on their own,” said Keali`i Lopez, AARP Hawai`i state director. “Anyone can download and create their own cards to send love to an older adult. Go to wishofalifetime.org/cupid and learn more.”