Experts in the field of geriatric medicine are happy to impart their knowledge and offer recommendations for older adults seeking to improve or maintain their physical health through the application of strategies such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, balance and flexibility training, and so on. When it comes to getting elders up and moving around and sharpening their minds, maintaining an active social life is sometimes recommended. These advantages of interacting with others are excellent, but socializing has even more to offer people as they age. Find out why socialization in 55 plus communities in North Carolina matters to residents.
Why Socialization in the Elderly Matters
The value of socializing and the relationships it fosters extends far beyond the obvious advantages of getting out of the house and keeping the mind active. Experts have proved that socializing among older adults not only lets the brain stay sharp, but it can even lessen the risk of getting dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Not only does spending time with others improve your brainpower, but it also has other positive psychological effects that can improve your quality of life including the following:
- Enhanced Mental Health
Isolation is a major contributor to the prevalence of depression in the elderly, and it affects a large percentage of the population at risk. It is common to feel depressed when you are alone. Having meaningful relationships with others is a powerful antidote to isolation and depression. Our social relationships and the things we accomplish give us a sense of purpose in life. In addition to avoiding the negative effects of isolation, maintaining a happy frame of mind is made easier when one regularly interacts with others.
- Sense of Community
At this stage of life, a sense of community is just as crucial as it was when we were younger. Feeling like we have someone to talk to about the highs and lows of life is crucial. Someone who has experienced the death of a loved one, be it a friend or spouse, may sense an even greater yearning for community. Participating in meaningful life events with your social circle can be a great way to forge new friendships and strengthen existing ones.
- Improved Self-Esteem
Negative effects of aging on self-esteem are widespread. When we find that we are unable to perform the same tasks we formerly took for granted, we may feel ashamed or frustrated. However, the more we interact with others and take part in group events, the more we feel like we are making a difference in the world. Any type of encouragement can help us feel better about ourselves by highlighting the ways in which we have grown and developed over time.
- Accountability
At some point in our lives, we could all use some extra accountability. Social networks can serve as accountability partners for the elderly, encouraging them to maintain healthy habits as they age. It is easy to fall into the habit of neglecting ourselves if we isolate on our own. However, having social interactions provides additional motivation for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
