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Moore: Seniors need interpersonal contact

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With summer officially here, as an Arizonan, you’re likely looking for ways to continue enjoying the outdoors while also staying cool (bring on the swimming pools) and in doing so, you may also want to think about how to best protect your skin.

The past two years has been challenging for everyone, but especially for seniors. They have suffered as much or more than anyone. Some were confined in their homes or apartments with little contact with the outside world except with electronic or print media. Opportunities were available with Zoom or other similar platforms; however, many seniors were reluctant to engage or did not have the knowledge or equipment to do so.

The lack of socialization or fellowship with fellow seniors was devastating. Humans are a socializing society and need that interaction. Some relief was available with Zoom sessions, but it did not substitute for the interpersonal contact. RISE Learning for Life, like other organizations and churches, found it difficult to provide that connection.

We are just beginning to see how habits have changed during the last two years of confinement with COVID. People have become more comfortable at home entertaining themselves with reading and streaming TV programs. Platforms like YouTube and informational programing has become more popular. Churches and organizations have noticed the increase in number of members who would rather participate by sitting at home and not attending in person.

As of July 1, RISE merged with Rio Salado College as a Community Development division. This merger will broaden the scope of both programs, allowing Rio Salado an opportunity to reach more seniors and give RISE a greater presence in the college. For 25 years RISE has operated as a “student organization” of Rio. There are many resources available through the college that give RISE more visibility to the Northwest Valley and more talent for improving programs.

Rio Salado College and RISE are looking forward to the merger with great anticipation.