This is an update on Humana’s research here in 78207 in terms of Social Connections and older adults — 3 simple questions that can change all our mutual work! And, Sarah Davis, with Successfully Aging and Living in San Antonio (SALSA) and the SA Area Foundation, also briefed the detailes and replicable information about the “Generations Over Dinner Initiative.”
Quick recap
The meeting focused on community mental health and social connection, with updates on the upcoming Pathways to Hope conference and a spotlight on addressing social isolation among older adults. Doug highlighted the 11th annual Pathways to Hope, its focus areas, keynote speaker, youth conference, and the importance of community and faith involvement. Ann reported on Humana-funded research in zip code 78207 assessing social isolation and the role of community navigators in connecting older adults. Sarah presented the Generations Over Dinner initiative by the San Antonio Area Foundation and SALSA, describing its intergenerational model, facilitation approach, and positive impacts on empathy and ageism. Participants shared local examples and interest in replicating the model, and discussed the value of recording elders’ stories and fostering intentional connection across ages and neighborhoods.
Summary
Pathways to Hope Planning Update
The meeting began with casual conversation about internet connectivity issues before Ann announced that Pathways to Hope is approaching its 11th year and is just over one month away. Ann also announced the next Action Lab Roundtable scheduled for August 20th from 3:00 to 4:30 PM, which will focus on resourcing and sharing information about services for older adults and caregivers. The conversation ended with Ann preparing to hear from Doug about Pathways to Hope and asking Sarah about upcoming dinner dates, though Sarah’s response was cut off at the end of the transcript.
Pathways to Hope Conference Announcement
Doug announced the 11th annual Pathways to Hope Conference scheduled for August 28-29 at the Tobin Center, with a theme of “Taking Action” focusing on jail diversion, psychiatric hospital beds, and recovery campuses. The conference will feature a keynote address by New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, plenary sessions, and six workshop tracks, with free CEUs available for mental health professionals. Registration is open online at pathwaystohope.us, with approximately 650 registrations so far and expectations of 1,000-1,200 attendees, including a youth-focused conference on Saturday.
Social Isolation Research Update
Ann reported on Humana’s research in San Antonio zip code 78207 regarding social isolation among people over 60, distinguishing between loneliness and social isolation. The research involves six local organizations assessing social support using three questions and has identified transportation as a key barrier, leading to the implementation of transportation programs that help people form relationships. Ann introduced Sarah Davis from the Area Foundation to discuss their generational dinners program as an example of addressing social isolation.
Generations Dinners Initiative Presentation
Sarah presented the Generations Dinners initiative, a program developed by the San Antonio Area Foundation to address isolation and loneliness through intergenerational connections. The program involves curated tables of up to eight people with trained facilitators guiding conversations, allowing each person time to share their perspectives on topics like what brings them joy. Sarah highlighted successful implementations including a planned dinner at Grace Lutheran Church and St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church in Bandera, and Marion High School’s initiative to host their own community dinner after students attended a Generations Dinner. The program is being studied by UT San Antonio Social Work School and Psychiatry for its impact on intergenerational empathy and addressing ageism.
Community Dinner Program Discussion
The meeting focused on discussing a community dinner program aimed at connecting different generations through shared meals and conversations. Sarah presented the program and shared success stories, while participants expressed interest in implementing similar initiatives in their own communities, including at senior facilities and neighborhood settings. Several attendees, including Ilsa and Rita, requested information about training materials and expressed interest in organizing similar events in their areas. The group discussed the importance of intentional facilitation to encourage meaningful conversations beyond casual socializing, and participants shared experiences with similar community-building efforts including taco nights and healing circles.