As people age, they can tend to seclude themselves from society for many reasons. Some may develop physical limitations that make getting around more difficult. Some may feel set in their ways and not open to trying new things, meeting new people, etc. Still others may suffer from seasonal or clinical depression and struggle to find the motivation to get out and get social.
However, social engagement has been proven to improve emotional, mental, and even physical health. Seniors who are socially active have higher self-esteem, lower stress levels, and are less likely to be diagnosed with anxiety and depression.
In recent years, healthcare providers have begun to realize that participating in social activities is one of the best things elderly patients can do for their overall health.
It’s Good For Your Heart
Seniors that are involved in regular social engagements are more likely to be participating in physical activity that is good for their hearts. High blood pressure is one of the most common heart-related issues that seniors deal with. Social interactions have been proven to naturally lower blood pressure and increase circulation, making it a great activity for overall heart health.
Lowers Depression Risk
Seniors that isolate themselves from the world tend to experience feelings of loneliness, boredom and hopelessness. The longer seniors isolate themselves, the harder they find it to open up and talk about their feelings, get advice, or seek professional help when they’re feel especially down. This often results in depression and/or anxiety.
On the other hand, regularly socializing with a group of peers makes it easier to feel supported and to open up to friends about struggles. It takes a lot of time to maintain close friendships, but they are very important for seniors’ overall mental health and help them feel a sense of belonging that staves away feelings of depression and stress.
Decreases Stress Levels
Chronic stress isn’t just an unpleasant feeling. It is something that keeps our bodies in constant “fight or flight” mode, constantly dumping adrenaline and cortisol into our bodies over time.
Left unchecked, stress can lead to a variety of serious health concerns from depression, digestive issues, and headaches to heart disease, sleep problems, and weight gain.
Spending time regularly with a familiar group of friends can greatly decrease stress levels and allow seniors to relax and enjoy themselves. This can be vital for lowering stress levels and preventing the physical complications that can occur over long periods of stress.
Improves Cognitive Function
Being involved in social interactions can also help keep seniors intellectually engaged and sharp. The brain needs to be “exercised” to stay in top shape and interacting with friends and family uses many areas of the brain that are not used in activities of daily living (ADLs).
Social interactions strengthen communication skills, decrease risk of Alzheimer’s or dementia, and help combat many other age-related concerns.
Promotes Good Peer Pressure
Staying active with a group of friends can be contagious. Some seniors lose motivation to continue their healthy lifestyle as they begin to lose mobility. However, seeing friends of the same age stay active and healthy is an inspiration to stay the course yourself.
Studies show that becoming physically inactive in your golden years can lead to a faster decrease in health and put you at risk for developing serious conditions. Keeping social engagements can help keep you accountable to sticking with a healthy way of eating and help you keep your body moving.
There’s no denying all the many benefits of social interactions for seniors, not the least of which is that it just makes you feel good. There are many ways to either increase your social activity or get back into it:
- Join a club that interests you and attend meetings and events
- Volunteer or find a part-time job that interests you
- Get involved in your local church or other non-profit organization
- Visit friends and family often
- Consider moving into a senior living community that has a full social calendar to help you meet new friends and stay active and healthy
Come Experience the Bellaire At Stone Port Difference
Bellaire at Stone Port strives to provide a meaningful quality of life for our resident family members that balances the need for assistance with their desire to maintain individual autonomy. We offer customized levels of care and an array of services and amenities that provide support and promote healthy lifestyles. It is our mission to deliver a range of options that focus on practical well-being and enriching activities. Residents of Bellaire at Stone Port have greater independence and can enjoy life more.
We know there are many choices for senior care but after touring Bellaire at Stone Port and meeting our caring and friendly team, we genuinely believe our community will stand out above the rest and be perfect for you or your loved one.