Social Engagement Programs

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OCDOA Aging Transitions’ Social Engagement programs are focused on supporting three groups of people. A person living with a disease that causes cognitive decline that requires support from others. Care partners that support this person. And community volunteers who are searching for more meaning in their days. These programs provide education, friendship, growth and tools to help families adapt to challenges that come when living with a loved one experiencing cognitive decline.

All three of the groups will get recharged personally, reconnect with those around them, recreate for the greater good with service projects and music and art to share with others. 

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Social Engagement refers to social interactions that are pleasing and meaningful to those who engage in them and promotes physical, cognitive, and emotional wellbeing. The brain thrives on activity and stimulation, and withers without it.

Social Isolation affects nearly 1 in 5 adults 65 and older. An accumulating volume of research suggests that loneliness and isolation are major risk factors for cognitive decline.  

Dementia Friends @ Carolina

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At any given time, Social Engagement programs includes 2-4 college students from local universities, providing a rich intergenerational environment. Many students have expressed that volunteering at R Place helped them decide on an academic path in geriatrics. In 2023 a UNC student founded Dementia Friends @ Carolina for UNC students to learn how to engage and support people living with dementia by coordinating dementia friendly community trainings on campus and providing volunteer opportunities for club members at R Place and Memory Cafés. This is a wonderful partnership that provides a huge community benefit.

Social Engagement Program Pages

Click on the front page of our Endless Possibilities feature to see an archive of past pages featuring the social engagement programs!

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For More Information Contact

Alison Smith 

R Place Director     
Social Engagement Programs Coordinator 
(919) 245-4251
alsmith@orangecountync.gov