In the midst of a global pandemic, another hidden public health crisis has emerged: Loneliness, the subjective feeling that results from social isolation. The condition affects people of all ages and is a significant health risk, particularly for older adults and those with chronic conditions. A recent study from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine found that social isolation has been associated with an increased risk of developing dementia and premature mortality. Loneliness is rising among the younger people as well, with Gen Z (those born between 1997 and the early 2000's), being most affected, according to a major study from 2018. During this panel, we'll hear from leading experts on how COVID-19 is exacerbating the loneliness epidemic and the healing power of human connection.

Moderator
Scott Kaiser
Chief Innovation Officer, Motion Picture & Television Fund

Speakers
Linda Goler Blount
President and CEO, Black Women's Health Imperative

Jeff Huber
President and CEO, Home Instead Senior Care

Dora Hughes
Associate Professor of Health Policy & Management, Milken Institute School of Public Health

Kim McCoy Wade
Director, California Department of Aging