Supervisor to discuss loneliness at aging well conference

San Mateo County was the first in the county to declare loneliness as a public health crisis. Canepa was a key proponent for this effort and has since worked on various programs that work to rid of social isolation. 

Loneliness and social isolation are increasingly recognized as public health issues among older adults. Canepa said he’s “happy people are beginning to look at this work in a manner that’s deserving.” 

“This is something that is really beginning to pick up speed,” he said. 

In 2030, a quarter of Californians will be 60 years or older, according to Kaiser Permanente. The event will discuss the latest innovations supporting healthy aging at home, in community and across health systems, the event page reads. 

“As older adults are becoming a significantly larger portion of the state’s population, I’m proud to be a champion for the mental wellness of our aging population and that starts with social connection,” Canepa said. 

Speakers will discuss the emerging needs of older Californians, how to create age-friendly health systems and how to build social connections across generations. Speakers will also include Dr. Carla Peissinotto, a professor and geriatrician at the University of California, San Francisco, and Carlene Davis, board member for Village Movement California. 

Keynote speaker will be entertainer Rita Moreno who will join anti-ageism activist Ashton Applewhite. 

A key part of the work done by the county is to destigmatize the feeling of loneliness, Canepa said. The more people can identify they feel lonely, the more they can reach out to access available services and try to find community, he said. 

“This is something we really have to address and I’m excited we’re having these conversations and that people, rather than trying to say loneliness doesn’t exist or is an embarrassment,” Canepa said. “What we’re able to do is create a platform where people can get help if they need help. 

Over the weekend, Canepa led a hike at Sawyer Camp trail in San Mateo for anyone interested in joining a group in nature and encouraging meaningful connections. The event was far more popular than he anticipated, bringing in nearly 100 people looking to strengthen their community ties, Canepa said. 

“In terms of all the issues I’ve worked on the Board of Supervisors, this is probably the most impactful one,” Canepa said. “I do believe this is an issue that resonates with a lot of people and a lot of our residents.”