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.
Current Upcoming Events
September 19, 2022 – SCNOVA Bingo & Burgers at Foster’s Grille Vienna. Bring your appetite and game face to Foster’s Grille (138 – A Maple Ave W, Vienna, Virginia) on Monday, September 19th from 5pm-7pm. We will sell each Bingo game for $1/card. Prizes for each game. SCNOVA will also receive 20% of food receipts that evening so order that milkshake!
October 6, 2022 – Pickleball Happy Hour and Mixer sponsored by the Adler Foundation and Tom & Robin Portman. SCNOVA is hosting a Pickleball Mixer & Happy Hour on Thursday, October 6, 2022 from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm at the Lake House in Reston, Virginia. Even if you don’t play pickleball, come for great food, entertainment and to raise money for the Shepherd’s Center of Northern Virginia. Register and pay here.