YOUNGSTOWN — For many older people, following recently issued stay-at-home edicts to prevent the spread of the coronavirus is a double-edged sword.

The orders reduce the likelihood of them getting sick, but also can increase their social isolation and loneliness — both of which can lead to depression, a loss of self-worth or suicide, many experts say.

A local organization is trying to counteract this negative cycle.

“We’re working together to connect with individuals at home,” said Steve Pelton, board chairman for We Thrive Together, a conglomeration of about 30 partnering entities in the Mahoning Valley dedicated to reducing such feelings in senior citizens in the region.

According to various studies on the organization’s website, about 75 percent of Americans struggle with loneliness, an estimated 8 million people age 50 and older are affected by isolation and about 43 percent of those 60 and older experience frequent or severe loneliness. In addition, those who are lonely are more prone to heart disease, dementia and depression.

Being further isolated from others by having to stay at home can exacerbate these feelings in some seniors, Pelton explained.

In an effort to keep people better connected during Gov. Mike DeWine’s mandate, WTT is offering a series of free online events, presentations, classes, discussion groups and a variety of activities mainly for those 50 and older in the region. Those without internet service can access many of the programs via their phones, Pelton noted.

Offerings this month include cooking, baking and exercise classes, an Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver support group, help with computers, periodic updates on the coronavirus pandemic, online games, storytelling, a hearing-loss support group, bingo, trivia, Monday movie reviews and line dancing. Also available will be discussions on topics such as happiness and wellness, sleep deprivation, stress management and maximizing one’s memory capacity.

After registering for an event, participants will receive instructions to join the online program. For more information, call Alyssa Covert, senior advocate, at 330-727-9452, or go to www.wethrivetogether.org.

Such programs are vital — especially during the coronavirus crisis — because “older people’s social network tends to shrink already,” Pelton said, adding stay-at-home orders can have a greater detrimental effect on how disconnected some people feel.

Another valuable aspect of the linkage available to clients during the crisis is that it gives them another opportunity to rekindle relationships.

“If someone wants to share something they’re passionate about, we can facilitate that,” said Pelton, who added the offerings are geared toward people age 50 and older, but those who are younger also can participate.

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