Research shows that 24 percent of Americans aged 65 and older are socially isolated, and 43 percent of adults aged 60 and older report feeling lonely. Loneliness is associated with a 40 percent increase in a person’s risk of dementia, a higher risk for depression, high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and a weakened immune system. Loneliness and social health are considered global public health issues due to their detrimental impact on physical and mental health. According to the National Institute on Aging, activities which make meaningful connections, provide a sense of purpose and opportunities for volunteering decrease feelings of loneliness.

Together, Family and Consumer Science Extension Agents in Whitley, Rockcastle, Lyon, and Laurel Counties along with the Jabez Quilt Seminar (JQS) Advisory Council seek to improve the social health of attendees of JQS. The 20th annual session was held in Cave City, Kentucky in January 2024 with 98 attendees of which 94 completed the post event survey. This statewide effort draws attendees from several states and features a nationally recognized featured instructor. With an atmosphere alive with creativity and camaraderie, 100% reported that participation in quilting events provides feelings of companionship, a connection with others who have a common interest, reduced feelings of stress and anxiety, and provided a calming effect. 99% report feeling a sense of purpose and 97% reported that the event provided them with a sense of community. Many of our attendees, 78%, report that they often turn to quilting as a means of coping with grief and sadness and 83% embrace volunteerism as they sometimes or always create quilts for donation.

Woven throughout the entire event are feelings of community, friendship, and sharing of talents. Of the 98 attendees, 20 attended for the first time in 2024. This mix of participants provided a wonderful balance of seasoned and new students as attendees worked on everything from traditional patchwork to modern compositions. In the end, JQS is not just an event to create quilts—it is an opportunity to weave together the fabric of friendship, purpose, and creativity into a beautiful tapestry of shared experience.