The MPO Finance Committee in Utah held a meeting on November 25, 2024, focusing on the importance of connection in caregiving, as presented by Linda Cole. The discussion emphasized the need for caregivers to prioritize their own social connections to enhance their well-being and effectiveness in their roles.

Cole shared her personal strategy for maintaining connections, which includes reaching out to friends and family twice a week through calls, texts, or emails. She highlighted the significance of these interactions in alleviating personal stress and fostering a sense of community. Additionally, she encouraged caregivers to schedule monthly social activities, such as lunch or dinner dates, to strengthen relationships.

A key point in Cole's presentation was the value of sending handwritten cards or letters, which she described as a "going old school" approach that can uplift both the sender and the recipient. She also advocated for reconnecting with distant family members or friends, noting that the pandemic had opened new avenues for virtual connections.

Cole urged caregivers to step out of their comfort zones by initiating conversations with new acquaintances and engaging in small acts of kindness, such as smiling at strangers. She shared a personal anecdote about a meaningful interaction at a grocery store that reinforced the positive impact of simple gestures.

In her concluding remarks, Cole provided several "bonus tips" for fostering connections, including focusing on what one can do rather than what one cannot, keeping efforts simple, and actively seeking out opportunities to connect with others. She emphasized the importance of building a broad circle of relationships beyond family, as these connections can be particularly beneficial for emotional health.

The meeting underscored the critical role of social connections in caregiving, encouraging participants to be proactive in nurturing their relationships for their own well-being and that of those they care for. The committee plans to explore further initiatives to support caregivers in building these vital connections.