Community

Often overlooked when considering the long-term health of older adults, social isolation deserves to be addressed. Today, AARP estimates that 17% of adults age 50 and older suffer from isolation. Isolation is not always talked about but it is an important public health issue that affects millions of Americans.

Communities across Texas are working each and every day to become more livable for residents of all ages.

By Thomas Korosec

June is National Great Outdoors Month, a time for observing nature and enjoying our surrounding environments. Beginning as a week-long celebration of nature, we now nationally recognize the beautiful countryside, forests and parks of the United States for the entire month of June. This recognition promotes the splendor of our great outdoors and highlights the labors of those who work to preserve nature in our modern world. It raises the awareness of national policies on nature conservation by highlighting the beauty and health benefits of the natural environment.

As a passenger on Austin’s Capital Metro buses, I had seen my share of AARP ads: smiling faces and discount offers for people age 50 and over.

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (APAHM) celebrates the accomplishments and culture of Asians and Pacific Islanders in the United States. This national recognition helps to garner awareness for a minority often underrepresented in American culture.

Texans living in rural areas continue to struggle with access to broadband internet, a utility that is increasingly essential to everyday life. As connectivity becomes mandatory for the requirements of everyday life, including access to education, health care, job applications and bill pay, more people are being forced to choose between the high cost of at-home service or being cut off from the modern world.

By Tom Korosec

How can we improve our cities and neighborhoods to enhance quality of life as we age? A recent symposium on aging in Austin emphasized a simple common theme: let holistic community solutions take center stage.

During National Volunteer Week, it is important to reflect on what it means to be of service to something larger than ourselves.