County Forum Seeks to Keep Isolated Seniors Engaged

San Mateo County seniors who face loneliness and isolation can learn about volunteer opportunities and community programs at a forum in Burlingame today.

"Making the Connection," a free public event organized by the San Mateo County Health System, aims to combat loneliness and depression in seniors by connecting them with various organizations that keep them engaged in their communities, department spokeswoman Robyn Thaw said.

Some of the organizations making presentations at the forum are the Second Harvest Food Bank, Peninsula Family Service Agency, Senior Center Without Walls and the Fair Oaks Community Center.

San Mateo County has a higher proportion of older adults than the state average, according to the health department.

Social isolation and loneliness among seniors is on the rise as people are living longer after retirement, often with children and extended family living farther away, according to the county.

Seniors, care providers and family members are all encouraged to attend the forum, which gets under way at noon at St. Paul's Episcopal Church.

The church is located at 415 El Camino Real in Burlingame.