For most older adults, aging with grace usually brings fitness and a healthy diet to mind. However, you might be surprised at how much of an impact your social life can have on your health.
Social connection and meaningful relationships are essential for everyone, especially seniors.
Unfortunately, social isolation and loneliness are common among older adults in the United States. According to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, approximately one-quarter of Americans aged 65 and older are considered to be socially isolated. The good news is that improving your social life can dramatically improve your health and wellness.
Read on to learn how a robust social life protects the health and wellness of seniors and tips for improving and maintaining your social life.
The health benefits of social connections
Having opportunities to connect with others and form friendships and relationships are critical to a healthy lifestyle. Social interactions and relationships play a vital role in promoting the overall well-being of seniors in the following ways:
- Lower blood pressure
- Reduced risk of cardiovascular disease
- Improved Immune system
- Additional opportunities for physical activity
- Boosts feelings of belonging, purpose, and self-worth
- Reduces the risk of depression and anxiety
- Improves brain function
- Decreases feelings of loneliness and isolation
- Provides a safety net for seniors
There's nothing more essential and mood-boosting than having the love and support of a close network of family and friends.
Tips for staying socially active as you age
Mobility issues, difficulty driving, the loss of family and friends, and living alone make it harder to maintain current relationships and meet others, but there are ways for seniors to make it easier for seniors to foster a healthy social life:
Senior living communities: the solution for social isolation
Consider moving to a senior living community. Today’s senior living communities are full of vibrant, socially active older adults. These communities are designed to provide residents with various opportunities to meet and connect with their peers.
Check out some of the activities that keep residents busy in Allegro Senior Living communities:
- Fitness classes
- Guest speakers
- Planned events and activities
- Bar & Bistro
- Movie theater
- Swimming pool
- Transportation to shopping and local events
- Volunteering opportunities
- Concierge services for planning outings
Local clubs & senior citizen groups
Most towns and cities have organizations providing seniors with social opportunities, such as game nights, free transportation, book clubs, and senior fitness classes. Contact local churches, the YMCA, or your chamber of commerce to find organizations designed for seniors.
Foster or adopt a pet
Seniors and pets make excellent companions. Studies have shown that pet ownership can reduce loneliness, reduce stress, decrease blood pressure, and give seniors a sense of purpose. In addition, dog owners are more likely to engage in physical activity. A game of fetch, tug of war, or a walk around the neighborhood can improve seniors' health. And there’s nothing more satisfying than a quick snuggle with an adorable puppy or kitten!
Wrap-up
Maintaining a healthy social life is crucial for the health and wellness of seniors. Social collections and meaningful relationships vastly improve physical and mental health. By nurturing and prioritizing social interactions, seniors can age gracefully and live a satisfying life.
If you’re interested in the many social opportunities available at Allegro Senior Living Communities, connect with one of our helpful advisors.
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