December 2, 2024 “Romeos and Juliets help seniors fight loneliness,” The Champion
The Park Springs ROMEO (Retired Older Men Eating Out) and JULIET (Just Us Ladies Indulging in Enjoyment Together) supper clubs were recently featured in an article published by The Champion. The all-male ROMEO and all-female JULIET groups gather informally for meals weekly at the Park Springs Clubhouse dining room to combat the potential for loneliness among Members.
Park Springs Member Charles Alexander, co-chairs the senior living community’s health and wellness committee and shared that a 2023 declaration by the U.S. Surgeon General that loneliness had reached epidemic portions in the United States sparked the establishment of the groups.
Aging and health experts have found links between loneliness and social isolation and linked both to higher risks for a variety of physical and mental conditions: high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, a weakened immune system, anxiety, depression, cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s disease, and even death, according to the National Institute on Aging.
Park Springs Member Bill Witcher coordinates the ROMEO group meetings. After researching the subject of loneliness, he surveyed some of his Park Springs neighbors about when they are most lonely and received a range of responses, but around dinner time was a common response. The ROMEOs have started taking field trips to local restaurants once a month and have developed a great sense of camaraderie.
Park Springs Member Ellen Sutley coordinates the JULIET supper club, which is comprised mostly of women who are newer to Park Springs. She shared that “it’s really good for people who are moving here and don’t know anybody.”
Park Springs staff helps members create relationships before they even move into their new home and staff training focuses on the importance of relationships as a core value.
“Groups like the ROMEO and JULIET supper clubs at Park Springs are an easy way for our Members to connect with others and counteract the loneliness that can accompany aging,” said Emily Strickland, director of continuing care at Park Springs.
To access the online story, visit The Champion website here.
