As Houston gears up for the seventh annual Bridges Conference, the Houston Health Department's Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) is shining a spotlight on an often overlooked health crisis: social isolation and loneliness among older adults and disabled individuals. Set for Thursday, at the United Way – 50 Waugh Drive, the gathering will host over 200 attendees, united under the theme of "Building Bridges through Community," as announced in a statement obtained by the Houston Health Department. The aim is to forge stronger community ties to combat these silent epidemics that significantly impact the well-being of vulnerable populations.
The urgency of addressing this issue is underscored by a staggering 2023 report from the Office of the Surgeon General, which found roughly half of US adults suffer from loneliness. Akin to playing with fire, loneliness and social isolation can raise the risk of premature death up to 26% and 29%, respectively, and are alarmingly linked to a 29% increased risk of heart disease and 32% increased risk of stroke. Dr. Carmen Castro, division manager for HCAAA/ADRC, told the Houston Health Department, "we are gathering partners who work to serve older adults and people with disabilities, caregivers and veterans throughout Harris County." Castro also emphasized the critical role of such partnerships in maintaining independence and enhancing social connections for those at risk.
This year's conference will act as a melting pot for professionals from diverse fields, including the Harris County Area Agency on Aging (HCAAA) and ADRC local networks. It's also attracting policy makers and community stakeholders. Among them are representatives from the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities, Houston Police Department, and the Latino Commission on AIDS. The goal is to provide a robust knowledge-sharing platform that covers a range of poignant issues, from managing older adults living with HIV to fostering connections in the deaf community.
According to the Houston Health Department, the Bridges Conference is pulling out all the stops with an array of sessions and panels. The schedule boasts a spate of topics aimed at raising awareness and cultivating networks. One of the highlights promises to be Dr. Jason Burnett from the UT Houston McGovern Medical School, who, delivering the keynote speech, will undoubtedly bring valuable insights. For those requiring it, Spanish breakout sessions will be available, showing an inclusive approach to addressing these health challenges.
Open to all stakeholders in human services and healthcare, the Bridges Conference encourages participation from a diverse audience—including caregivers, veterans, and other care providers. Those interested in joining the discourse can reach out via email to [email protected] for registration information.
