Social isolation can be an extreme danger for the elderly, which often goes unnoticed. 

Shelly Tolly with OSF Peace Meal explains that social isolation can be as dangerous as smoking two packs of cigarettes a day, and it is seen in seniors all too often. They are tackling these issues through their congregate sites, which give seniors who are able the opportunity to get out of the house and participate in social interaction. 

Tolly says that they receive great feedback from seniors who participate in the congregate sites. She adds that it's just as rewarding for her to build those relationships as it is for the seniors. 

The congregant sites are not the only way OSF Peace Meal is approaching social isolation. Tolly indicates that the seniors who receive home-delivered meals are able to get to know their drivers because it is the same one every day. 

If you're interested in learning more about OSF Peace Meal's congregate sites or home-delivered meals program, visit osfhealthcare.org