The One-Person Parade

The Promise

I will do a one-person parade walk to help others feel connected and show them that they are not alone.

Impact of the Promise

Social isolation among older adults is a “serious public health concern” because of their heightened risk of cardiovascular, autoimmune, neurocognitive, and mental health problems. With the elderly ordered to remain home, have groceries and vital medications delivered, and avoid social contact with family and friends, urgent action is needed to mitigate potential mental and physical health consequences.

Self-isolation will disproportionately affect elderly individuals whose only social contact is outside the home, such as at community centers and places of worship. Those who do not have close family or friends and rely on the support of voluntary services or social care, could be placed at additional risk, along with those who are already lonely, isolated, or secluded.

Across the country, suicide rates have been on the rise, and that rise has struck the nation’s seniors particularly hard. Of the more than 47,000 suicides that took place in 2017, those 65 and older accounted for more than 8,500 of them, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Men who are 65 and older face the highest risk of suicide, while adults 85 and older, regardless of gender, are the second most likely age group to die from suicide. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there were 47.8 million people over the age of 65 in the U.S. as of 2015. By 2060, that number is projected to reach 98.2 million.

Write a sign

Go for a solo-walk

Action Items

Do

  • Write an inspirational message on a piece poster board or piece of cardboard paper.
  • Use a large font so that the sign is easily readable from a distance (of 6 feet or more).
  • Make sure you can walk safely.
  • Find high traffic areas where your message will have impact (such as a senior living facility near you).
  • Use materials you have on hand, like cardboard and markers, instead of buying new supplies.
  • Bring portable music to add to the festive feeling. Play something upbeat.

Don’t

  • Don’t go with family members or friends. Set a good example. ONE PERSON ONLY.
  • Don’t get closer than 8 feet to other people.
  • Don’t pet cute dogs; they may be carriers (unknowingly on their fur).
  • Don’t make this an excuse to take an unnecessary trip to the store for supplies.
  • Don’t impede traffic or go in the road!
  • Don’t walk in dangerous areas. Don’t forget about safety.

Parade for Hospital Staff: Pizza for Heroes

Complete a One-Person Parade by Monday, April 6th at 11:59pm and we will deliver a pizza to hospital staff to show them that the world is rooting for them! Prove that you completed you did a One-Person Parade by filling out the form below. We will send up to 1,000 pizzas to hospitals!

Did you complete a One-Person Parade?

If you have completed your One Person Parade, tell us about it!

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Resources: “Loneliness as a Public Health Issue: The Impact of Loneliness on Health Care Utilization Among Older Adults” https://ajph.aphapublications.org/doi/abs/10.2105/AJPH.2014.302427

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