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We've all felt lonely at some point in our lives, whether during the COVID-19 pandemic, an illness, or after losing a family member. People can even feel lonely even when surrounded by others.
In 2023, Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy sounded the alarm on the epidemic of loneliness and isolation in the U.S. The eye-opening report was the topic of the 2024 Evelyn R. Hayes Innovations in Healthcare Symposium, hosted by the University of Delaware College of Health Sciences (CHS) on the Science, Advanced Technology and Research (STAR) Campus on Oct. 23.
This year’s symposium, “Understanding and Addressing the Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation,” featured keynote speakers Dr. Thomas Cudjoe, assistant professor of medicine at Johns Hopkins University, and Lisa Jaremka, associate professor of psychological and brain sciences at UD’s College of Arts and Sciences (CAS).
Since 2014, the Hayes Symposium, made possible through the generous support of Evelyn R. Hayes, Trustees Distinguished Professor Emerita in UD’s School of Nursing, has sought to bring community members, legislators, clinicians, researchers, students, and faculty together to learn and share information to improve Delawareans' quality of life. This year’s summit saw a record turnout of more than 200 attendees.
“Addressing complex and pressing issues like loneliness and social isolation requires input and collaboration from a wide range of stakeholders,” said CHS Dean Bill Farquhar. “Dr. Hayes’ unwavering dedication to bringing people together in pursuit of solutions to societal challenges is commendable.”
Each symposium begins with a call to action from Hayes.
“Reflect and commit your unique skillset to further the positive impact of research and clinical practice on understanding and addressing the epidemic of loneliness and isolation on individuals, families, and communities in Delaware and beyond,” urged Hayes.
Surgeon General: “Social connection is medicine”
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