The Importance of Social Life for Seniors
Did you know that social isolation may be unhealthy for you? The National Institute of Aging says there’s a “strong correlation between social interaction and health and well-being among older adults.”
There have been many studies over the years exploring the relationship between loneliness and declining health. For example, one study showed social isolation is a major risk factor for death, especially in seniors. In addition, people who are frequently lonely have higher blood pressure, are more likely to develop depression, and suffer overall poorer health.
On the flip side, being socially active correlates with lower levels of a certain inflammatory factor. This factor may be related to age-related diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and heart disease.
So we see how important social interaction is for our physical health. What about mental or emotional health? Psychology Today reports that interacting with others boosts your feelings of well-being and decreases feelings of depression. Spending time with other people improves your mood.
In addition, people who regularly connect with others generally do better on memory tests. There is even some evidence that seniors with active social lives are less likely to develop dementia.
How to Stay Socially Active
As you age, you may become less mobile. It’s harder to get out and socialize like you used to. Your friends may also become sicker, or even pass away. You may feel it’s impossible to be socially active as you age.
But you can maintain or expand your social circle, even as it shrinks due to relocation, illness, or death. Moving into an assisted living facility or retirement home is a great way to meet new people and broaden your horizons. While there’s nothing like an old friend who weathered the years with you, new friends are like a breath of fresh air. You can gain a different perspective on yourself and the world, and you learn new things.
Here are some ways to maintain old friendships and make new ones:
- Learn how to use technology to keep in touch. Emails, texting, and sharing photos and videos is a great way to keep in touch with old friends. Consider opening a Facebook account to reconnect with friends you’ve lost touch with.
- Use old-fashioned means too. Write a letter, send a postcard, or pick up the phone. Your friend on the other end will be thrilled to hear from you.
- Join a hobby group or club. There’s nothing like a friendship built on commonality. When you join a hobby group, you can connect with a whole new pool of people who are interested in the same things you’re interested in.
- Get involved in your community. Whether it’s a weekly volunteering gig at your local church, or heading a welcoming committee for new residents at your assisted living community, getting involved is a sure way to stay socially active.
Here’s a July challenge for you: reach out to one old friend, either via the internet, by phone, or in person. Watch your sense of satisfaction and well-being soar!