Healthy relationships are necessary at every age, but the importance of socialization for seniors cannot be overstated. Research has proven that socialization among the elderly has multiple benefits. It improves quality of life and prevents cognitive decline, such as memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease, and other forms of dementia.
The Benefits of Socialization for Seniors
Older adults with a fulfilling social life tend to be better off. They are less likely to experience avoid many of the physical, cognitive and emotional difficulties. In contrast, that seniors who are socially isolated encountermay face these issues.
A study from Harvard Medical School found that seniors who have strong social lives benefit in multiple ways. They have higher levels of physical activity, more positive moods, and fewer negative feelings.
A Penn State study found that seniors who regularly socialize with family and friends achieve better results in cognitive tests than those who don’t.
The American Journal of Public Health reported on the cognitive benefits of having a social network for older women. Studies showed that these women had reduced risk of dementia. Additionally, any cognitive impairment was delayed or prevented. There are a number of important ways that socialization can improve senior health, as explained by LiveStrong:
Evidently, socialization can provide a tremendous boost to a senior’s mental health. Positive social interactions on a consistent basis help keep older adults stimulated, mentally sharp, and intellectually engaged. Importantly, when these social interactions include activities like exercise classes, the benefits of both are increased significantly.
Additional benefits of socialization for seniors include:
• Longer lifespan. Those with high levels of socialization can live longer.
• Reduced stress. Older adults who are socially active tend to handle stress better, which can result in better cardiovascular health and an improved immune system.
• Longer lifespan. High levels of socialization in seniors help increase longevity.
• Better fitness. Older adults with diverse social supports are more likely to exercise regularly.
• Reduced risk of anxiety and depression. Consistent socialization reduces the likelihood of experiencing the anxiety and depression caused by senior isolation.
• Greater self-esteem. Socialization helps seniors maintain their self-esteem and sense of worth.
How Does Social Isolation Affect the Elderly?
Now that we understand the importance of socialization for seniors, it’s necessary to know the negative affects of social isolation on the elderly. The National Council on Aging acknowledges that social isolation and loneliness negatively affects the health of seniors and can even increase the risk of mortality by 50% – higher than the impacts of obesity and alcohol abuse. They also note that socially isolated seniors are at a higher risk of:
• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Obesity
• Weakened immune system
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Cognitive decline
• Alzheimer’s disease
To prevent these consequences, it’s important to understand the obstacles seniors face when it comes to socialization, so they can be addressed sooner than later.
Obstacles to Senior Socialization
The most reported difficulties seniors face when combatting social isolation include:
• Physical ailments
• Loss of a spouse or other loved one
• Isolation and/or mobility problems
• Real or perceived cognitive decline
• Less availability of family members to assist with
social activities
Older adults and their families face various challenges. Some may be harder to overcome than others. It’s important to work to reduce these obstacles as much as they can. Otherwise, it will be more difficult to cultivate a social life that delivers so many benefits.
Without intervention, this can quickly develop into a vicious cycle that is difficult to escape. It’s important to get involved early on before any of the above obstacles become rooted in our senior loved one’s lives.
Fortunately, it’s never too late. There are always positive ways to intervene, no matter how far the problem has progressed.
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Acts and The Terraces at Bonita Springs
239-204-3469