Loneliness and isolation in older adults lead to an increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. That’s according to researchers supported by the National Institute on Aging. They add the epidemic of loneliness can also promote cognitive decline and depression, negatively affecting the health of individuals and society at large.
The research shows, however, that adults who engage in meaningful, productive activities with others tend to live longer and have a sense of purpose. A resident of Plattsburgh, New York has been combating senior isolation for decades, giving older people, and even younger folks, a social and nostalgic activity to look forward to at least once a week, every week, in the form of old fashioned movie nights. If you can remember the distinctive clicking sound of a film projector, and the look and feel of actual film before celluloid yielded to digital technology, then the flickering images coming from devices owned by Andy MacDougall may brighten your life.
He has dedicated countless evenings to screening movies using 16 millimeter film projectors, the kind used in schools and libraries before video cassette recorders and DVD players became the favored equipment in audio visual departments.
The Plattsburgh man hosts movie events in his home and at other venues in the area.
Enjoy Andy MacDougall’s conversation with Spotlight producer Paul Larson. They discuss how his nostalgic hobby offers many people a regular activity to keep them engaged and less lonely.
For any info on arranging film bookings for birthday parties, etc., or to simply attend any of the screenings MacDougall emcees Thursdays and Saturdays in Plattsburgh, feel welcome to text him at (518) 802-1220 or e-mail serious_61@yahoo.com.
Spotlight is made possible, in part, by the Glenn and Carol Pearsall Adirondack Foundation, dedicated to improving the quality of life for year-round residents of the Adirondack Park. Spotlight is also supported by Hill and Hollow Music.