An 81-year-old explains her simple solution to make sure loneliness doesn't become 'a way of life' — and what she thinks stands in the way of forming connections

• Patricia Backlund, 81, combats loneliness by organizing a weekly "Friday mingle" for her community.
• Her efforts reflect a larger, global initiative to address loneliness and promote social connection.
• The impacts of loneliness can be especially harmful for older adults who might not have many relationships.

Patricia Backlund, 81, wouldn't describe herself as lonely — but she knows how easy it is to become that way.

When Backlund and her husband moved to Gig Harbor, Washington, six years ago, she initially chose a home in a 55-plus community. However, she later decided that she wanted a more independent setting, so she moved to a nearby community that was still being built — meaning none of the residents knew each other very well.