Our Mission & Vision

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The impact of our mission aligns with continuing and emerging research that is being pursued by scientists affiliated with the National Institute on Aging. Individuals are social creatures our relationships to others enable us to live and thrive. But, as we age, many of us are alone more often than when we were younger, leaving us susceptible to social isolation and loneliness. 

Findings from a growing body of research has associated social isolation and loneliness and older people to higher susceptibility to a variety of physical and mental conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, diminished immune system, anxiety, depression, cognitive decline, and Alzheimer's disease. Those who find themselves alone due to the death of a spouse or partner, disconnection from family or friends, retirement, loss of mobility, and absence of transportation are at distinct risk. In contrast those older individuals who involve themselves in worthwhile, beneficial activities with others tend to live longer, improve their mood, and have a sense of purpose. Studies indicate that these activities seem to help regulate their well-being and may enhance their cognitive function.

"Loneliness acts as a fertilizer for other diseases. The biology of loneliness can accelerate the buildup of plaque in arteries, help cancer cells grow and spread and promote inflammation in the brain leading to Alzheimer's disease. Loneliness promotes several different types of wear and tear on the body." - Steve Cole, Ph.D., Director of the Social Genomics Core Laboratory at the University of California, Los Angeles 

Hamilton House's lively social and educational network encourages an environment for our members to build community and thrive. We believe that this has a valuable impact on both our members and the larger Rhode Island and southern New England community.