Seeking older adults (55+) who have experienced loneliness and/or isolation later in life to discuss their experience with this. Loved ones of older adults significantly affected by this are also welcome to respond, though first-hand accounts are priority. This is for Next Avenue, a PBS publication geared toward readers 55+. Questions below. I can accept responses until 3pm ET Friday, 13 June. Written responses preferred. Please let me know, at your earliest convenience, if you can assist. Thank you! **Please, do not respond to this if you are an expert wanting to give your insights---this request is only for personal experiences. I have a separate request out for professionals. Questions: 1) Please state your full name, occupation (or retired), city/state (or city/country), pronouns, and current age 2. When did you experience loneliness or notice that your loved one was experiencing it? Do you know what caused/contributed to it (e.g., perhaps losing a close friend or spouse, moving, etc.) How did you identify that it was a problem (e.g., how did you feel at that time, or what red flags did you notice)? 3. Were you also isolated at this time? How did loneliness and/or isolation impact your health and quality of life (or your loved one’s)? 4. When did you decide to do something to reduce loneliness, and what did you do specifically (e.g. finding a hobby, volunteering, joining an interest or support group, inviting family for weekly dinners, etc.)? 5. How has your life and/or health/wellbeing improved since you became less lonely? 6. What are a couple of tips you’d recommend for people who are struggling with loneliness themselves?

I'm Jane Doe, a retired nurse living in Sarasota, Florida, and I use she/her pronouns. I'm currently 68 years old. My experience with loneliness kicked into high gear after I retired. Suddenly, I was missing the daily interactions with colleagues and patients, which had filled much of my days. It hit hard when I realized I was talking to my cat more often than to actual people, and my mood and energy levels had dropped significantly. I was somewhat isolated too, not just lonely. My children live out of state, and most of my close friends are still working or have moved to be with their grandchildren. The turning point came when I started feeling a persistent sadness and lack of motivation. To tackle this, I joined a local book club and started volunteering at a nearby hospital. Engaging with the community helped fill the void that retirement left. I found myself looking forward to the weekly book discussions and the sense of purpose that came from helping others. My overall mood and health improved a lot once I started interacting more with people again. Volunteering especially gave me a sense of accomplishment and connection. It's important to find activities that not only pass the time but also give you a sense of belonging and purpose. For anyone struggling with loneliness, I'd recommend reaching out to community centers or groups that align with your interests. Even starting small, like regular coffee meet-ups with a neighbor, can significantly help. Remember, it's never too late to build new connections and rekindle your zest for life.

1. Melody Morton-Buckleair, 58. I'm a Pilates teacher, retreat host, and the owner of The Good Space in Houston and Elmwood Place in Palestine, Texas. I live in East Texas and spend most days helping others reconnect with their bodies through movement and nature. 2. After my divorce, loneliness showed up quietly but heavily. I returned to my family land and restored an old schoolhouse while raising two boys and running two businesses. Though my days were full, I felt invisible. I stopped laughing. I gained weight — physically and emotionally — as if I was carrying grief no one could see. 3. Isolation hit hard. Even though I was often around others, I felt deeply disconnected. My energy crashed, and chronic stress took over. It wasn't just a mental experience — my body started to shut down too. Sleep became difficult, and my nervous system felt stuck in survival mode. I was surrounded by people but starved for true connection. 4. Change began when I realized no one was coming to rescue me. I returned to what I knew: teaching. I believe we teach what we need most. So I created space for others — Pilates retreats, horse circles, and fireside conversations. Through serving, I slowly found myself again. Community became my medicine. 5. My sleep improved. Joy returned. I began to feel lighter, more at ease in my body and mind. Life became less about surviving and more about living. By letting others in, I gave myself permission to stop hiding. That honesty built real, lasting connection. 6. * Go help someone — service pulls us out of self-pity fast. * Stop waiting for the perfect moment; just reach out. * Go to church. Plant a garden. Walk your dog. Feed a horse. * If you can't talk yet, move. The body remembers what joy feels like — let it lead.