As Wisconsin’s senior population continues to grow – projected to exceed 1.5 million by 2040 – community groups and statewide initiatives are increasingly focused on enhancing the quality of life for older residents. Efforts center on creating age-friendly communities and combating social isolation, recognizing the critical link between social connection and both mental and physical wellbeing.
Sara Richie, Life Span Program Manager at the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Division of Extension, emphasizes the importance of inclusive and supportive environments for seniors. “They are ensuring that people have an opportunity to lead fulfilling and connected lives and have access to the things that they need to age in place,” Richie said. “They provide an opportunity to celebrate the strengths and contributions of older adults, and have an infrastructure that supports them, and the services to meet their needs as well.”
The focus extends beyond simply providing services; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging, and purpose. Suzanne Morley, health promotion program coordinator for the Wisconsin Institute for Healthy Aging and coordinator of the Wisconsin Coalition for Social Connection, highlights the tangible health impacts of loneliness and isolation. Organizations like Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) are responding with initiatives ranging from “senior proms” and activities at senior centers to health promotion programs and training for meal delivery drivers to provide more than just a meal – but a connection.
Research underscores the importance of this approach. Megan Zuelsdorff, an assistant professor at the UW-Madison School of Nursing, points to the correlation between social connection and healthy behaviors. “For one thing, it’s actually easier to live healthy, to engage in healthy behaviors, if we have a companion along with us,” Zuelsdorff explained. “We know that we eat more poorly when we’re by ourselves. We drink more alcohol. We stay inside more. It’s just easier to engage when you’re doing things for other people, too.” she notes that social engagement can serve as a protective factor against dementia, functioning as a form of mental exercise.
Recognizing the unique challenges faced by rural communities, initiatives are being tailored to address specific local needs. Gina Laack, director of the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Eagle Country’s Juneau County office, notes that smaller communities often lack the infrastructure – such as senior centers – and transportation options necessary to support robust social engagement. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these issues, leading to increased reports of disconnection and loneliness.
In Juneau County, a particularly vulnerable demographic has been identified: aging men. Laack explained, “We know that aging men are at higher risk of loneliness. Especially aging rural white men are at higher risk of suicide, mainly in our farming communities as well.” To address this, Laack and her colleagues adapted an international model – the “Men’s Shed” – providing a space where men can come together for conversation and collaborative projects. The Juneau County Men’s Shed operates out of a local conservation club, offering a familiar and welcoming environment.
Similar initiatives are underway in other parts of the state. In Kewaunee County, the “Mastery Makers” – a group of local leaders over the age of 60 – are dedicated to reducing ageism and promoting age-friendly practices. They are also documenting the leadership and volunteer contributions of their members through a series of online videos. Meanwhile, in Oconto County, extension educators are working with local communities to improve accessibility to sporting events for seniors, installing handrails on bleachers, providing transportation assistance, and offering live streaming options.
Oconto County also boasts a “Tech Cafe” for technology training, a “StrongBody” fitness program, and a community produce pantry, demonstrating a multi-faceted approach to senior wellbeing. Further north, in Door County, extension educators are partnering with local businesses and agencies through Engage Door County to encourage senior involvement in civic life and volunteer opportunities.
Richie, of the UW-Madison Division of Extension, highlighted the importance of these localized efforts. “We know in our rural communities how important youth sports are and how big those football games and basketball games can be for engagement of older people in getting out and seeing their youth play,” she said. The goal is to remove barriers to participation and create opportunities for meaningful connection.
These initiatives reflect a growing understanding of the complex interplay between social connection, health, and quality of life for Wisconsin’s aging population. As the state prepares for a significant increase in the number of seniors in the coming decades, these community-led efforts will be crucial in ensuring that older residents can continue to lead fulfilling and connected lives.
Sara J. Richie is the Extension Point of Contact, serving as Life Span Outreach Program Manager at the Institute of Human Development and Relationships, UW-Madison, Division of Extension. Her distributed office is located at 432 N. Lake Street, Madison, WI 53706, with a mailing address at 330 Court Street, Eagle River, WI 54501.
