OPERATION S.A.V.E.

HAVE YOU HEARD OF “OPERATION S.A.V.E.”? 

S.A.V.E. = Senior Adult Veteran Engagement

DID YOU KNOW: 

More than 50% of elderly in homes have no close relatives*

46% have no living children*

60% never have any visitors*

Studies have shown that the negative effects of loneliness on health are similar to smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day!

PREDICTABLE FUTURE:

With the rise of the baby boomers, the population of people over the age of 60 is going to double in the next 40 years*, potentially leaving our grandparents and parents all alone. Especially the people who have fought for our freedom

Imagine all the stories left untold, advice unshared and recipes unbaked

If we don’t show more support to our veterans now, the people who have made freedom possible for us, will continue to suffer with feelings of loneliness

IMAGINE:

How Veterans will feel when they hear how thankful people are to be American and it wouldn’t be possible without them, not in a card but in person

Maybe it would allow them to fight harder another day and want to do something to ensure others around them are fighting, too

According to National Center for Health Statistics

OPERATION S.A.V.E.(Senior Adult Veteran Engagement)

MISSION: To collect cards, letters, drawings, emails and showcase/read them out loud to the Veterans in the VA Assisted Living. In doing so would show support and bring happiness to all the Senior Veterans who have served.

WRITING GUIDELINES:

• Start off by addressing the letter , e.g. “Dear Hero”
• Thank them for their service, bravery, commitment, etc.
• Let them know you support them

ALWAYS BE POSITIVE

• Never share anything negative, such as personal struggles)
• Do Not Discuss: Politics, controversial opinions, most news or Religion (though you can say you are praying for them/sending prayers, etc.)
• There is no character length, however, write something you’d want to receive
• Write from the heart, like if it were your grandparent, friend, etc.
• Adults may include return contact information. Only first names/age for children

Make it Personal and Unique:

• If you know someone who has served, share your connection
• Share a little about yourself: Family, Hobbies, Work, School, Pets, Travel
• Talk about life and interests: Sports, Weather, Music, Movies, Food, Books
• Share favorite quotes or anything inspirational
• Discuss why you are Thankful for them

OTHER WAYS TO GET INVOLVED:

Consider drawing or painting a picture instead – include first name and age on the back

Parents/Grandparents/Teachers: Collect and send in your kids artwork you won’t keep

Company: Ask your coworkers to write emails/cards, which you can collect and send in

Lead the Way: Feel free to work with your local VA & do the same with family & friends

EMAIL: WordsForVeterans@gmail.com  – Address: PO Box 398435 Miami Beach, FL 33239

SPREAD THE LOVE: We want all veterans to see your kind words! Take a picture of yourself with your card/drawing and tag it on Facebook and Instragram @WordsForVeterans

https://www.aplaceformom.com/blog/10‐17‐14‐facts‐about‐senior‐isolation/

20 Facts on Senior Isolation

1. Senior isolation increases the risk of mortality.
2. Feelings of loneliness can negatively affect both physical and mental health. 3. Perceived loneliness contributes to cognitive decline and risk of dementia. 4. Social isolation makes seniors more vulnerable to elder abuse.
5. LGBT seniors are much more likely to be socially isolated.
6. Social isolation in seniors is linked to long‐term illness.
7. Loneliness in seniors is a major risk factor for depression.
8. Loneliness causes high blood pressure.
9. Socially isolated seniors are more pessimistic about the future.
10. Physical and geographic isolation often leads to social isolation.
11. Isolated seniors are more likely to need long‐term care.
12. Loss of a spouse is a major risk factor for loneliness and isolation.
13. Transportation challenges can lead to social isolation.
14. Caregivers of the elderly are also at risk for social isolation.
15. Loneliness can be contagious.
16. Lonely people are more likely to engage in unhealthy behavior.
17. Volunteering can reduce social isolation and loneliness in seniors.
18. Feeling isolated? Take a class.
19. Technology can help senior isolation — but not always.
20. Physical activity reduces senior isolation.

https://www.aplaceformom.com/blog/10‐17‐14‐facts‐about‐senior‐isolation/