Lonely (elderly) people

Loneliness is a devastatingly big problem in Western society. Soon, scientists say, it will be the biggest cause of death in the Western world. Sad, isn’t it? So many people and more possibilities to connect than ever, still our individualising society causes people to die of loneliness. Us humans, we’re not made to live alone. Feeling connected, being a part of a community is vital for us.

Are you familiar with the Blue zones? There are 5 zones in the world where the most 100-year olds live. These places vary on many subjects; geographical location (from Asia to Italy to, even, North America), diet: pork/no pork, lot’s of (good) fats/low fat, the amount of vegetables, exercise. While these factors are relevant, there is one thing that binds these people in becoming healthy 100-year olds. They do the things they do together. It’s togetherness that brings them happiness, that brings them joy ánd that keeps them healthy!

I EM was born to help make us humans live more together. We seem to have forgotten how to. What if we all made an effort to speak to unknown people we meet? Take five minutes to talk to the neighbour that lives alone. Take 10 minutes to talk to that lady that visits your shop all the time and looks so sad. Or that little bit strange looking young man, longing to talk to someone else than his dog.

Even better, as I EM-er we wear a sign. We’re recognisable. What if lonely people could wander into town knowing they’d always find someone. Just for smalltalk or for a longer conversation about whatever those people feel like? Knowing you can speak your mind and heart an being met with respect and interest. What if everyone took, say, 30 minutes every month and invested that in a lonely person? How many people would have better lives? How many lives could be saved?

And, it would affect your live positively as well. We can learn from everyone we meet. Take the opportunity!