Since 2015 you’ve helped to bring fun and learning with CitySites’ intergenerational programming. Since the loosening of COVID-19 precautions, you’ve helped low-income older adults get online through Digital Dividends. Beginning in 2022, you’ve sponsored classes in painting, drumming, dance, and other arts in Creative Connections. Because of support from caring people like you, our work has made a difference in the lives of older Bostonians. Read LBFE Boston’s full FY23 IMPACT report, here.
We’re making a difference in the lives of older adults. Through our programs, we foster friendships, connect generations, and prevent social isolation and loneliness.
Our 2023 impact by the numbers.
More Than
0
older adult
participants
Nearly
0
college student
participants
Gathering in
0
Boston
neighborhoods
Classes Offered in
0
languages
and dialects
More than
0
in donor
contributions
- 28% Asian American
- 24% White
- 22% Black
- 6% LatinX
- 60% Female
- 40% Male
- 38% Asian American
- 49% White
- 11% Black
- 2% LatinX
- 50% Female
- 50% Male
Social isolation impacts all generations.
The US Surgeon General’s recent report on the lack of social connection tells us:
- 1 in 3 US adults aged 45+ feel lonely
- 26% & 29% increased risk for premature death and heart disease, respectively
- 32% & 50% increased risk of stroke and developing dementia, respectively
- Only 16% of Americans feel attached to their local community
LBFE has been working to prevent and relieve loneliness and isolation since 1979.
Older adults are especially affected by the lack of social connectedness. Some of the factors that make 117,000 older Bostonians (age 60+) vulnerable to isolation and loneliness include:
of older adults
live alone
live at or below
the poverty line
are linguistically
isolated
Connected generations thrive.
Young and old alike who build social connections and networks can boost their lifespan by 50 percent, and report
- An increased sense of purpose and well-being;
- Sharing experiences and skills;
- Feeling confident and appreciated, and
- Gaining stronger communities by combatting stereotypes and ageism.
"When 5:00 comes it’s like “what?! it’s over?!” I wish [the students] could stay longer!
"
- Michelle
"It’s fun to start conversations and learn from the seniors"
- Gaetan
"I truly enjoy the students. I like hearing about them, and we all share our stories."
- Marion
"It’s beneficial, especially to that type of person that might not come out on their own to socialize. I might have been one of those people myself."
- Bob