Research shows that staying social as we age has numerous mental, emotional and physical health benefits. The National Institute on Aging at NIH has linked loneliness and social isolation to higher risks of high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, depression, cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s disease and much more. “Interacting with others may be the key to warding off these conditions” according to Dr. Raymond Hobbs of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. 
Family is an important element. However, according to a recent study from the University College London, it’s friends, not family, that can make all the difference when it comes to maintaining health and well-being later in life. Dr. Andrew Sommerlad, PhD, lead author of the study, observed “It is most likely that social contact is beneficial by building cognitive reserve, meaning greater resilience … alongside managing cardiovascular health and being physically active, people should endeavor to stay socially active.”
Social events are a useful option for this kind of social interaction. Each year SCNOVA organizes a number of fun and engaging events to give seniors more options for having fun, seeing friends, and making new ones.
Past & Upcoming Events
Our social events are listed under Events>Special Events and also on our main calendar at Events>Events Calendar. For a succinct list of past events and key upcoming events, please visit Events>Special Events.
December 3, 2024, we ask you to please keep the Shepherd’s Center of Northern Virginia in mind. As a non-profit we rely solely upon the support of community partners, grants and donations. To put your generosity into perspective, remember this, our funds go to enriching the lives of older adults in the communities we serve.