Seniors are far from lonely when they stay connected and entertained with music. A group of musicians gathered to enjoy music together, all while interacting with one another.

“They all share a common interest in music, in particular vintage music performed on acoustic instruments,” said Chuck Oakes, the founder of Great Room Jam and a banjo player. “The majority of these people are seniors, but we don't exclude anyone, but the jams have a certain character.”

Oakes organized The Great Room Jam as a way for community members to gather, connect and socialize through music. He has dedicated much of his life to making a difference in the lives of others, through music. 

“Jams are not performances, they are collaborations, they are teaching songs to other people, and, for the most part, they are open for everybody to join in,” Oakes said.

As a result of the pandemic, this is the first time the group has jammed. The group welcomes all ages, but mainly the older generation participates. It's a way for the seniors to stay connected. A significant percentage of older adults are socially isolated and lonely, a serious, yet under-appreciated, public health risk. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a quarter of community-dwelling adults over 65 are socially isolated. 

 "Music is fun, it's entertaining, and it's relaxing," said banjo player Jack Broderson. “Even if you screw up in the company of friends, you know, they don't cut the thing short or cancel the paycheck. You just go on and continue anyway. You know, it's fun. It's all about fun."

Despite having health issues, Broaderson loves to play his banjo and listen to bluegrass music, so gatherings like this keep him occupied. 

“We are known for playing at senior homes and luncheons and dinners because we play old-time music because we are all seniors. The seniors like that kind of music for their age group,” Broaderson said. “Chuck, Jack, and the group are aware of the health risks associated with social isolation and loneliness, but, as Plato said, ‘music is medicine for the soul.’ They keep going because of that.”

If you or anyone you know is suffering from loneliness and social isolation please call The Samaritans HelpLine at 1-877-870-4673.