Sharing a good laugh and having meaningful conversations with our friends and family may be the best form of therapy for our overall well-being. The importance of social ties and the benefits of socialization should never be overlooked. As we advance in years, socializing with others is extremely important to ward off social isolation and feelings of loneliness. Numerous studies show that seniors who have an active social life often enjoy good physical, mental and cognitive health, and are known to have longer lifespans.
Better Stress Management
Staying socially active can lower the level of chronic stress that often takes a toll on our physical and mental health. Stress can trigger a chain of illnesses and diseases. As such, we should help our loved ones to deal with pressure and stress by providing them with opportunities to socialize. By keeping their stress levels down, our loved ones will be able to enjoy good cardiovascular health and develop a stronger immune system.
Increases Confidence and Self-Esteem
A socially isolated person often experiences low confidence and self-esteem. If any of your loved ones are feeling lonely and isolated, you should help them build a supportive network of friends and family so they can spend time with the people they care about. Having good connections with the people around them can boost their confidence and keep them grounded.
Reduces Risk of Developing Dementia
According to a study, the cognitive capacities of individuals who had frequent social interactions deteriorated 70 percent more slowly than those who had minimal social contact with others. As such, cognitive decline like memory loss, dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease can be prevented by staying mentally sharp and intellectually engaged through socialization.
Improves Mental Health
Lack of social interaction often leads to feelings of loneliness, and in cases of prolonged seclusion, your loved one may experience emotional detachment. Interacting with others helps to form bonds and relations that can help individuals overcome their depressive episodes. Through socialization, they can maintain a healthy state of mind and develop a positive attitude.
Caring for Self
The people in our loved ones’ social circles can serve as accountability partners to one another. They can provide emotional support and ensure that our loved ones are taking care of themselves. When they keep to themselves, it can be easy to fall back into bad habits and neglect self-care. However, socializing with their favorite people can provide them with the determination to prioritize their personal health.
Quality of Life and Longevity
Studies have shown that high levels of socialization help to increase longevity in individuals. Making sure our loved ones stay sociable and connected to others can not only extend the length but also improve the quality of their lives.
Boosts Physical Health
Having a strong network of supportive family and friends can also encourage our loved ones to exercise more frequently and eat a healthier diet. Practicing healthy habits can lead to lower risks of developing health problems like cancer, osteoporosis, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Promotes Purpose
Having a close-knit circle of friends will make our loved ones’ lives more fulfilling. Spending their time with others will help them feel connected, give them a sense of belonging, and allow them to depend on others. This will in turn give meaning and purpose to their lives.
Stay Socially Active at TerraBella Lake Norman
At TerraBella Lake Norman, our community offers a diverse range of exciting activities and events for residents to stay socially active. With the constant lineup of activities, there are numerous chances for making healthy social connections. If any of your loved ones are thinking about moving into a senior living community, we are confident about providing them with companionship, opportunities for socialization, and the support they require for their overall well-being. Learn more about our senior living programs by contacting us today!
