BY YU KHING POH, PROJECT LEAD, APC’S ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY PROJECT
At the 100 Year Life Dialogue Series held its 2nd session on 28 August morning. The theme was on the importance of social connections and lifelong learning for longevity and successful aging. Mary Ann Tsao and her team from Tsao Foundation led us through a valuable exploration of the interconnectedness between social relationships, personal growth, and successful aging, emphasising the importance of fostering strong social bonds and engaging in lifelong learning as essential components of a fulfilling and meaningful life.
The following 3 key take-aways emerged:
1. Social connections as the cornerstone of well-being
The event underscored the crucial role of social connections in promoting mental health and resilience, particularly as we age. The Harvard Study of Adult Development served as a powerful reminder that relationships are the most significant factor in determining a happy and healthy life. The speakers highlighted that even though having strong social bonds as we age is ideal, in reality many older individuals experience more isolation as they age. Older people will naturally have less peers as friends with increasing age. It is thus important to prioritise social connections, including neighbourhood communities and intergenerational bonding, to address this issue.
2. Lifelong learning as a catalyst for personal growth
Lifelong learning was presented as a vital aspect of personal growth, not limited to any particular stage of life. The event emphasized the benefits of continuous learning for aging individuals, including a sense of purpose, mental well-being, and personal fulfillment. Online resources, counselling methods, language learning, and skill-based classes were suggested as effective ways to encourage learning. Community-based initiatives, such as ComSA by Tsao Foundation, were highlighted as valuable platforms for seniors to engage in learning, grow, and build friendships.
3. Community-based interactions and engagements as a holistic approach to successful aging
The speakers emphasized the importance of a holistic approach to successful aging, encompassing physical health, financial security, mental well-being, and social engagement. All of these can be promoted in the context of community based interactions. An healthy community gives seniors a reason to come back. An active community can keep the fly-wheel going. Community development initiatives, such as Mobile Cafe Kawan by Tsao Foundation, were discussed as effective strategies for increasing accessibility and promoting meaningful engagement for seniors. The event called for extending these community-based models to different groups, including those with disabilities, to create a more inclusive and holistic approach to successful aging.
Future Direction
The event offered valuable insights into the interconnectedness of social connections, lifelong learning, and successful aging. It highlighted the need for greater emphasis on fostering social bonds, promoting lifelong learning opportunities, and creating supportive community environments. Reflecting on these discussions, it’s clear that future efforts must center on expanding access to programs that reduce isolation and foster connection—whether through neighborhood communities or intergenerational relationships. By committing to these areas, we can move closer to building a society that values inclusivity and enriches lives across generations.
Yu Khing Poh,
10 October 2024