Either Companionship or Death: Jewish Tools for Nurturing Friendship

Loneliness is  a major public health crisis especially for older adults.  Research shows that loneliness is as dangerous to your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.  The United Kingdom recently created created a new Minister of Loneliness position that deals with resolving social problems related to loneliness.  What does Judaism teach us about friendship as an antidote to loneliness that can help us sustain nurturing relationships and distance ourselves from toxic ones?  What new kinds of models are emerging that can help us find the kinds of communities like ChaiVillageLA, a partnership between two synagogues that is supporting congregants who want to age in place, that will support us as we grow older?  Bring your own lunch; we will provide dessert and drinks.