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Social isolation has reached epidemic levels among older adults, with 1 in 3 affected. The mental and physical health effects of isolation are serious, the equivalent of smoking 15

cigarettes a day. Research shows that being connected to a community may help improve overall health and even alleviate poverty. A strong social network can become a lifeline to the kind of

support and financial resources that make a difference during times of need. But a lack of affordable, accessible transportation and other financial challenges can limit the social

interactions that help older adults feel confident and empowered. And people over 50 from marginalized communities face discrimination that contributes further to isolation. That's why

AARP Foundation continues to be a champion for strong social connections, helping to ensure that older adults have access to supportive programs, services, and resources, and that they can

engage with each other and their communities in ways that improve their health and wellbeing.  In addition to the Connect2Affect website offering resources and suggestions for maintaining

and building social connections, AARP Foundation provides excellent opportunities for older adults to stay involved and engaged with their communities through volunteering. VOLUNTEER WITH

EXPERIENCE CORPS Student Tamaris Taylor works with Experience Corps volunteer Elizabeth "Marie" Brooks in Buffalo, New York. AARP Foundation Experience Corps is a community-based

volunteer program that engages highly trained adults over 50 as tutors and mentors to help K-3 students become better readers by the end of third grade. It is a proven "triple

win," helping students succeed, older adults thrive, and communities grow stronger. Experience Corps puts a special emphasis on serving diverse populations in underserved communities,

while almost 70% of its volunteers come from a broad variety of non-teaching professions. LEARN MORE ABOUT EXPERIENCE CORPS VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES. VOLUNTEER WITH TAX-AIDE AARP Foundation

Tax-Aide provides in-person and virtual tax preparation help to anyone, free of charge, with a focus on taxpayers who are over 50 and have low to moderate income. Tax-Aide is the largest

free volunteer-based tax assistance and preparation program in the U.S. Volunteers are trained and IRS-certified every year, and many of our Tax-Aide volunteers also help older adults find

credits on their property taxes through AARP Foundation Property Tax-Aide. Learn more about AARP FOUNDATION TAX-AIDE VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES. CONNECT2AFFECT Through the Connect2Affect

website, AARP Foundation is calling attention to the issue of social isolation and connecting older adults with local resources and tips to help them combat isolation and stay engaged in

their communities. LEARN MORE ABOUT CONNECT2AFFECT.