The Loneliness Epidemic in Orange County, and how gathering helps

The national picture

Across the U.S., 1 in 5 adults say they felt lonely “a lot of the day yesterday”- a sustained signal that loneliness remains elevated. The U.S. Surgeon General classifies loneliness and isolation as a public health concern with health risks comparable to smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day.

What this looks like in OC

Local analyses suggest that tens of thousands of older adults in Orange County are at risk of social isolation, with risk concentrated among those 65+ and adults facing transportation or mobility barriers. Loneliness and isolation correlate with health, income, and access to social activities—highlighting the need for practical, welcoming ways to gather.

Why hospitality helps

Sharing food and drink increases social bonding and community engagement, and can be a quick, low-stigma way to rebuild connection.

What we do

Savoring Connections turns private and corporate bookings into Connection Tables: free, dignified hospitality hosted at senior centers, shelters, and community sites. One celebration makes another celebration possible.

• 20% of U.S. adults report daily loneliness.

• Isolation/loneliness are associated with increased risk of heart disease (29%) and stroke (32%).

• OC estimates indicate about 95,000–101,000 older adults (65+) at risk of social isolation.