How a Strong Social Life Helps the Health and Wellness of Seniors

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When it comes to how to improve the health and wellness of seniors, you may be surprised to find that staying social is high on the list. However, seniors with a strong social life actually tend to enjoy longer, healthier lives. Why is that? And what can you do when opportunities to socialize become fewer and far between as we age? Check out these tips.

Socializing and the Health and Wellness of Seniors

According to the National Institute on Aging, seniors with strong social connections have a lower risk of anxiety and depression. Physically, those seniors also have a lower risk for Alzheimer’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, some forms of cancer, and even a lower death rate than those who don’t.

Why It’s Hard for Seniors to Stay Social

It’s not that we simply aren’t interested in maintaining those connections as we age. In fact, there are a number of reasons that make it more challenging for seniors to stay social including:

•       Living alone

•       Hearing/vision loss

•       Limited mobility

•       Limited transportation options

•       Being a caregiver for someone with a serious condition

•       Chronic health conditions

•       Psychological or cognitive challenges

However, the good news is that it’s not necessarily the number of connections that you have, but rather the quality that positively affects the health and wellness of seniors.

Tips for a Strong Social Life

Even though it may be more challenging, it’s certainly possible to maintain a strong social life at any age – and well worth it for the health and wellness of seniors like you! Here’s how.

•       Make the most of technology – It’s easier than ever to overcome distance, lack of transportation, and even mobility challenges with tools like FaceTime, Zoom, and Skype to stay connected with friends and family.

•       Reconsider your daily routine – If it doesn’t currently involve much socialization then consider doing something different like starting a walking group or book club with the neighbors. Or, look at local clubs and classes that appeal to you. Volunteering is another great way to meet people with similar interests.

•       Adopt a pet – Pets are wonderful companions and also provide ample opportunity to connect with others whether it’s at the dog park, cat café, or even on walks through your neighborhood.

It’s Easy to Stay Social in Senior Living

If you’re finding it hard to stay social on your own, we want you to know that communities like ours focus on health and wellness for seniors and an integral component of that is social connection. As such, we’re not only dedicated to helping residents maintain their current relationships but also expanding their social network as well. Here you’ll find a dedicated activities director and monthly calendars filled with events, outings, and enrichment opportunities for just about any interest you may have. And with the convenience of having these opportunities right outside your door (or transportation to offsite outings), connecting couldn’t be easier! Not to mention in a senior living community setting, you always have friends, neighbors, and team members nearby plus guests are welcome, too!

For more information about senior living and to schedule a visit, contact Friendship today.

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