As people get older, it’s often easier for them to become lonely and isolated, which can be damaging to both physical and mental health. Regular socialization with others is important for seniors, as connecting with friends and family can play a part in improving brain health and reducing the risk of dementia and other neurological issues. However, for many older people, socialization is not always easy. Many live alone and might struggle to get out due to health or mobility problems. However, making an effort to get out and socialize more often, or to help an older relative improve their social life, can have lots of great health benefits, which include:
Better Mental Health
Moving to a facility such as assisted living Southbury Connecticut where older people have others around them and are able to socialize on a regular basis can be excellent for mental health and wellbeing. Studies have found that seniors who are isolated and lonely are more prone to mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. Research suggests that working on improving social connections can be one of the best ways to improve your mood.
Reduce the Risk of Dementia
If you are caring for an elderly relative, then the risk of dementia may be one of your biggest worries. Recent studies have found that socializing often can be a very useful tool for improving brain and cognitive health. Research finds that people who often connect with others tend to achieve better results on memory and cognitive skills tests and are at a lower risk of neurodegenerative conditions such as dementia compared to seniors who are more isolated.
Better Physical Health
Physical health conditions are always a cause for concern as we get older. However, socializing more often can help improve physical health, with research suggesting that social engagement can help to strengthen the immune system, especially in older adults. Studies have found that seniors who spend enough time socializing to combat feelings of depression and loneliness tend to have a better ability to fight off viruses like the flu and common cold and may even be at a lower risk of certain types of cancer.
Longer Lifespan
Finally, studies have found that people who have more social support around them tend to live longer. Not only does this confirm the physical health benefits of an active social life, but also suggests that both improved mental and physical health in seniors can be important for living longer. Not only that, but seniors with an active social life tend to enjoy their life more, whether that involves regularly meeting up with friends, spending time with family members, or regular engagement in community social groups such as going to church or attending a reading or crafts group on a regular basis.
Since it often becomes easier to be isolated as we get older, anybody who has an elderly relative or friend that they care about should help them with improving their social life and spending more time around people who care about them.
