BROOKFIELD, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Social isolation is something many seniors face, and Ascension Elmbrook is hoping to reduce that isolation. They held a social meal for seniors Wednesday night, Sept. 17. 

Ascension says studies show older adults who are isolated have up to a 50% increased risk of getting dementia. 

The dinner held Wednesday night aimed to prevent that by offering a place for seniors in Waukesha County to connect. 

"We encourage them to sit with each other and talk with each other," said Nancy Shea, community health lead at Ascension Elmbrook. "They all have name tags, and they all have little prompts on the table for things to talk about."

"Being single, it's just nice to get out, and you got a lot of different people, you can communicate with them," said participant Nick Rettinger.

And that dinner wasn't just served -- seniors learned how to cook the healthy meal together. 

Ascension also gave out resources for seniors to find similar events and transportation so they can get out and socialize.