According to a Nov. 9 news release from New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, Dr. Westheimer will help people of all ages address social isolation in the honorary ambassadorship.
“Studies show individuals experiencing loneliness had a 32% higher risk of dying early and we need leaders like Dr. Ruth to help address this critical component of our mental health crisis,” Ms. Hochul said.
Dr. Westheimer, a psychosexual therapist known as Dr. Ruth, rose to prominence hosting radio and television talk shows in the 1980s and 1990s. She pitched the role to the governor herself, according to the news release.
“I am deeply honored and promised the Governor that I will work day and night to help New Yorkers feel less lonely,” Dr. Westheimer said in the release.
More than a third of adults over 45 experience loneliness, and a quarter of adults over 65 are considered socially isolated, a condition that can lead to higher risk of premature death from all causes, according to the news release.
“I look forward to working with Dr. Ruth Westheimer to raise awareness of initiatives already implemented at the New York State Office for the Aging to combat loneliness and isolation, building on these successes across all ages,” Greg Olsen, director of the New York State Office for the Aging, said in the news release.