Item 7: Draft Recommendation — original pdf

Backup

BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Aging Recommendation Number: 20260610-007: Social Wellness Month - July WHEREAS, the Austin Quality of Life Study for Older Adults found that older adults with disabilities faced 21% higher isolation risk while LGBTQIA+ older adults, men, and Native American/Indigenous older residents reported higher isolation levels1; and WHEREAS, social connection, volunteering, lifelong learning, community participation, intergenerational engagement, and neighborhood involvement enhance health and well-being for people of all ages while fostering a more connected and resilient Austin.2, 3, 4; and WHEREAS, social isolation and loneliness can negatively impact physical health, mental health, and quality of life, particularly among older adults and caregivers5; and WHEREAS, Austin’s community organizations, libraries, parks, recreation centers, faith communities, volunteer programs, and senior centers provide opportunities for residents to remain socially connected and civically engaged; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin recognizes the importance of creating welcoming, inclusive, and accessible spaces where all residents can build community and thrive. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Commission on Aging encourages the Austin City Council to proclaim the month of July 2026 as “Social Wellness Month” in Austin, Texas and encourage all residents, community organizations, and City partners to promote opportunities for social connection, volunteerism, community engagement, and intergenerational interaction that help reduce isolation and strengthen quality of life for older adults and all Austinites Date of Approval: _____________________________ 1 Austin Older Adult Quality of Life Study 2025-CAC-University of Indianapolis.pdf - Google Drive 2 Social connection as a critical factor for mental and physical health: evidence, trends, challenges, and future implications - PMC 3 CDC Article on Importance of Social Connection May 15, 2024 4 Intergenerational Programs for Seniors to Enhance Community Life 5 Social isolation, loneliness in older people pose health risks | National Institute on Aging Record of the vote: Attest: _____________________________________________