The Surprising Benefits of Name Tags, Golf Carts, and Saying Hello

 

At The Floridian Club of Sarasota, connection doesn’t happen by accident — it’s encouraged through small, thoughtful choices that make everyday interactions easier and more meaningful. One of the simplest examples is name tags. Staff wear them, often including their hometowns, and members have the opportunity to purchase them as well. Today, about 40% of the community owns a name tag, and at larger events you’ll frequently see members proudly wearing them.

Why does something so small make such a big difference?

Because human connection is essential — not just socially, but neurologically.

The Brain Is Wired for Connection

Neuroscience and public health research show that social connection is a basic human need, comparable to sleep, nutrition, or physical activity. Our brains are designed to recognize faces, remember names, and seek belonging. When we interact with others— even briefly — multiple areas of the brain activate, supporting emotional regulation, memory, and cognitive flexibility.

People who experience regular social interaction consistently show:

  • Lower stress levels

  • Improved mood and emotional resilience

  • Stronger cognitive function over time

  • Reduced risk of loneliness and cognitive decline

In short, connection keeps the brain healthy.

Why Name Tags Matter

A name tag does more than identify someone — it removes a barrier.

Seeing a name instantly makes introductions easier and conversations more natural.

Adding a hometown creates an easy starting point:

“You’re from there too?”

“I grew up nearby!”

Psychologists describe these interactions as connections with “consequential strangers”— people we may not know deeply, but who add richness and familiarity to daily life. For the brain, recognition matters. Being addressed by name activates positive emotional responses and reinforces feelings of inclusion and belonging.

At The Floridian, name tags help transform large gatherings into friendlier, more approachable experiences.

Golf Carts: An Unexpected Tool for Connection

While The Floridian Club may not have a golf course, golf carts are encouraged for a very intentional reason: they make it easier to connect.

Golf carts naturally slow the pace of movement and increase visibility. They invite waves, smiles, and spontaneous conversations. Unlike traveling in a car, golf carts make neighbors more approachable and interactions more likely.

These casual moments of greeting — even a quick hello — give the brain a social “boost,” releasing feel-good chemicals that support mood, reduce stress, and strengthen emotional well-being.

Small Moments, Lasting Impact

Connection doesn’t always come from planned conversations or organized events. Often, it’s built through small, repeated interactions — recognizing a face, remembering a name, sharing a quick exchange.

At The Floridian, everyday choices help create those moments:

  • Wearing a name tag

  • Choosing a community-friendly way to get around

  • Taking the time to say hello

Individually, these actions seem simple. Together, they create a culture of openness and warmth that supports both community health and brain health.

Why It Matters

Strong social connections are linked to:

  • Better emotional regulation

  • Improved cognitive resilience as we age

  • Lower rates of loneliness and depression

  • A stronger sense of belonging and purpose

In a time when many communities struggle with isolation, The Floridian Club of Sarasota stands out by making connection easy — and enjoyable.

Sometimes, the smallest gestures create the biggest impact.

And sometimes, all it takes is a name tag, a golf cart, and a friendly hello.

References

  • U.S. Surgeon General. Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation – Highlights social connection as a fundamental human need essential to health and well-being.

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Social Connectedness – Documents links between social interaction, reduced stress, and improved physical and mental health.

  • Harvard Gazette. Is Social Connection a Basic Need Like Food or Water? – Explores neuroscientific evidence that the brain is wired for social bonding.

  • Psychology Today. The Brain Benefits of Social Connection – Reviews how everyday interactions support cognitive health and emotional regulation.

  • Holt-Lunstad, J. et al. (2010). Social Relationships and Mortality Risk – Meta-analysis showing strong social relationships significantly increase longevity.

  • UNSW Sydney. Social Interaction Reduces Dementia Risk and Increases Longevity – Reports that regular social engagement lowers dementia risk and improves quality of life.

  • Sandstrom, G. & Dunn, E. (2014). Social Interactions and Well-Being – Research on the importance of brief, casual interactions (“consequential strangers”) in daily happiness.

 
Savannah Gordon