Top Reasons to Stay Socially Active as You Age
Eating right, staying active, and getting a proper amount of rest are all important ways for seniors to stay healthy. But did you know socializing is one activity that can help improve all the others? That’s right. The benefits of social interaction in the elderly can improve your mind, body and emotional health.
As everyone ages, forming new relationships can become more challenging. After retirement, you may lose many of your work relationships, and neighbors and friends can start to move away. This blog post will discuss the benefits of being socially active and offer ways to jump-start your social life.
Benefits of Social Interaction in the Elderly
Maintaining and building new social connections as you age can provide a variety of health and wellness benefits, including:
1. Better Mental Health
Research has shown you can improve your mood with consistent contact with friends and family members. Interacting with others boosts feelings of well-being and reduces stress and feelings of depression.
2. Improved Physical Health
Being socially active can often help keep you physically active. Especially if you’re getting together with a workout buddy, walking group, or joining friends on the golf course. Physical activity can help lower blood pressure, reduce physical pain, and even boost your immune system — allowing you to fight off colds, the flu, and even some types of cancer.
3. Improved Eating and Sleeping Habits
Seniors can start to choose convenience over proper nutrition, making themselves more vulnerable to malnutrition. Studies show seniors who dine with others often eat more food and choose healthier options. Also, those with good relationships, tend to sleep better than those who don’t are socially isolated.
4. A Sense of Belonging
Being socially active can help you stay connected to those you care about most. It can also help give you a feeling of belonging and add a sense of purpose to your days. Participating in group activities also allows you to create a support system.
5. Increased Longevity
Some studies have shown that those who are connected to others can even live a longer, happier life. That’s because friends can help you deal with the stresses of life and can also encourage you to live a healthier lifestyle. In fact, research from the Assisted Living Federation of America showed that more socially active seniors were more likely to live past age 90, and on average lived 5.4 years longer than those who were less engaged.
6. Lower Risk of Dementia
According to the National Institutes of Health, socializing is good for your brain health. By keeping your brain constantly engaged in activity and interaction, you are sharpening your mind and reducing risk of cognitive decline.
Becoming a Social Butterfly
Known for being charismatic and easygoing, social butterflies have excellent social skills and can walk into a room and talk to anyone. But what should you do if you don’t consider yourself a social butterfly? Start with an activity or event more in your comfort zone. To help get you started, here are a few suggestions:
Take an Exercise Class
If a regular gym seems too intimidating, consider trying out a fitness center that caters specifically to seniors. You’ll meet other active seniors who are looking to stay healthy and physically fit.
Focus on Family Time
Offer to babysit grandkids or help them with their homework. You can also take a loved one out to lunch. These are great ways to maintain those familial relationships and stay involved in the lives of people you love.
Volunteer
Many hospitals, schools, community centers and animal shelters are always looking for reliable volunteers of all ages.
Take a Class
Many colleges or adult education centers provide lifelong learning opportunities designed specifically for seniors where you can continue to try new things.
Try New Technology
Computers and tablets are the perfect way for you to connect via social media, email or Zoom with friends or family who don’t live nearby.
Think Part Time
Going back to work is another great way to keep your mind stimulated and engaged. Plus, you’ll have extra spending money.
Join a Club or Group
Regularly getting together with others in a club or group is a great way to meet new people and enjoy experiences with those who share your interests.
Walk the Neighborhood
Going for a walk is an easy way to meet your neighbors and their pets.
Play a sport
Join a league for group sports like pickleball, lawn bowling, golf or croquet.
Socializing Just Happens Naturally Here
At Trillium Woods, you’ll find a senior living community of engaging neighbors and a full calendar of social events, clubs and committees right outside your door. To learn more about our community and our active lifestyle, contact us here.