People generally are social by nature, and high-quality social relationships can help us all live longer, healthier lives. However, older adults often find themselves unexpectedly alone due to factors like the death of a spouse or partner, physical distance from friends or family, or loss of transportation and mobility. These seniors are at an increased risk for loneliness and social isolation — and the related health problems such as cognitive decline, depression and heart disease. While social isolation can be damaging to an older person’s health and livelihood, there are steps seniors and those in their support network can take to help counteract these negative effects.
Did You Know?
According to the National Institute on Aging, one in four adults age 65 and older are socially isolated. These seniors can experience significant health ramifications. Research shows that:
• People who have a strong social network tend to live longer.
• The heart and blood pressure of people with healthy relationships respond better to stress.
• Strong social networks are associated with a healthier endocrine system and healthier cardiovascular functioning.
• Healthy social networks enhance the immune system’s ability to fight off infectious diseases.
And these things result in a happy fulfilled life!
Ideas for Activities to Stay Connected
Chances are you know or interact with someone that is socially isolated. Sometimes it takes encouragement to help seniors stay connected and expand their circle of engagement. Here are activities you can recommend that can help seniors increase socialization and reduce loneliness.
Meet People with Similar Interests – Suggest they rediscover an activity or hobby that they once enjoyed and restart it. Alternatively, they may want to learn something new, and a group class is a great opportunity to start.
• Stay in Touch with Family and Friends – Remind family and friends to schedule time each day to stay in touch by email, social media, video chat, text, or make a simple phone call. If the senior in your life is not tech-savvy, help them sign up for an online or in-person class at the local public library or community center.
• Nurture Existing Relationships – Encourage them to invite people over for coffee or ask a neighbor to read a favorite book to engage a discussion.
• Adopt a Pet – Suggest they adopt a pet if living arrangements and ability for care allow. Animals can be a source of comfort and may also lower stress and blood pressure.
• Stay Physically Active – Recommend they join a walking club, senior fitness class, or exercise with a friend.
• Get Involved in the Community – Help them introduce themselves to neighbors, join a faith-based organization or volunteer to engage with others in activities and events.
Senior living communities are exceptional in that they can provide “just what” seniors need to fill all the gaps and enjoy a rich satisfying life.
• Stay in Touch with Family and Friends – Remind family and friends to schedule time each day to stay in touch by email, social media, video chat, text, or
make a simple phone call. If the senior in your life is not tech-savvy, help them sign up for an online or in-person class at the local public library or community center.
• Nurture Existing Relationships – Encourage them to invite people over for coffee or ask a neighbor to read a favorite book to engage a discussion.
• Adopt a Pet – Suggest they adopt a pet if living arrangements and ability for care allow. Animals can be a source of comfort and may also lower stress and blood pressure.
• Stay Physically Active – Recommend they join a walking club, senior fitness class, or exercise with a friend.
• Get Involved in the Community – Help them introduce themselves to neighbors, join a faith-based organization or volunteer to engage with others in activities and events.
Senior living communities are exceptional in that they can provide “just what” seniors need to fill all the gaps and enjoy a rich satisfying life.
Oasis Senior Advisors
(239) 218-7739
www.OasisSeniorAdvisors.com/Lower-SW-Florida
3739 Milano Lakes Circle #408
Naples, FL 34114