Create Your Own Happiness Career

At the age of 95, renowned sex expert Dr. Ruth Westheimer is embarking on a new chapter in her career by addressing the national loneliness epidemic. A resident of New York for six decades, Westheimer has taken the initiative to become New York’s “Ambassador to Loneliness.”

Despite the absence of an existing ambassadorial position for loneliness, both in New York and across the nation, Westheimer has been a vocal advocate for its creation.

Teaming up with a state senator, Westheimer initiated efforts to petition Governor Kathy Hochul to establish the role of Ambassador to Loneliness. Hochul, upon becoming aware of Westheimer’s advocacy, personally called her to convey that the position had been created, and Westheimer had secured the role.

In a statement, Governor Hochul acknowledged the significance of addressing the loneliness epidemic, highlighting the increased risk of early mortality associated with loneliness. Westheimer’s appointment as the nation’s first state-level honorary Ambassador to Loneliness reflects her commitment to aiding older adults and all New Yorkers in combating this mental health crisis.

The Covid-19 pandemic posed a challenging period for Westheimer, particularly as a social individual who enjoys dining out. The lockdown evoked memories of her teenage years as a Holocaust survivor, grappling with loneliness after becoming an orphan.

Motivated by her own experiences, Westheimer aims to help others navigate loneliness by fostering “meaningful busyness” and assisting them in finding the right community. Expressing her deep honor for the appointment, she pledged to work tirelessly to alleviate loneliness among New Yorkers.

In this unexpected career move at the age of 95, Dr. Ruth Westheimer continues to demonstrate resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to addressing critical societal issues.

_{Repurposed article originally published in CNBC News}