Healthy relationships are important at every stage of life, and seniors are no exception. Studies have shown that socializing often helps seniors to stay emotionally, physically, and mentally sharp. Social isolation has been proven again and again to be one of the leading causes of depression and has been shown to progress cognitive decline and memory-related illnesses.
Physically, staying socially active can help prevent a variety of physical ailments from negatively impacting overall health. When seniors stay physically active with friends by going on walks, gardening, or exercising, they enjoy the benefits of lower blood pressure, reduced cardiovascular issues, and a decreased risk of mental health issues.
Emotionally, the benefits of social interaction for the elderly are far-reaching. By doing something rewarding, enriching, and fun, seniors can have a more positive outlook on life and retirement. This healthy state of mind can encourage seniors to make other healthy choices when it comes to physical activity and eating habits.
Mentally, staying social allows seniors to improve overall brain health. Socializing requires seniors to participate, stay engaged, and listen actively. Having an active social life has been shown to improve cognitive function and help fight off mental health issues.
5 Ways to Make New Friends in Senior Living
When it comes to the importance of socialization for seniors, nothing beats face-to-face interaction. When family members live far away, or loved ones have passed on, it can sometimes be challenging for seniors to make new friends. Senior living communities are designed to provide a variety of socialization opportunities that make it easy to make new friends with similar interests.
Below are five ways to make friends as a senior citizen living in a retirement community:
- Join in on community activities – It’s not hard to get involved in a senior living community as there is typically a dynamic calendar of events, activities, and outings to choose from.
- Eat meals in common areas – Invite people you meet for lunch or dinner. Eating together will reduce any awkwardness and allow you to make new friends more easily.
- Seek out new residents – It’s always challenging to make friends when you’re the newbie, be sure to seek out new residents and invite them to join you for activities.
- Invite your family – Sometimes, having someone you know and trust in your corner makes you more social. Invite your family for dinner so that you will feel more comfortable making new friendships.
- Be patient – Making lasting friendships won’t happen overnight. The goal is to make social interactions every day that will help you find individuals with similar interests that you can create bonds with over time.
The importance of socialization for seniors is all-encompassing. Socialization feeds the mind, body, and spirit in a way that nothing else can. Making friendships in senior living communities can take time, but seniors can start reaping the benefits by being patient and forging relationships.
Stay Social at Heritage Senior Living
For active seniors looking to live fulfilling lives among new friends in homelike surroundings, look no further. Heritage Senior Living’s beautiful Independent Living communities feature open-concept apartments and an array of amenities specifically designed for seniors age 55 and better. We invite you to learn more about our independent living community and to contact us today with questions or to schedule a tour.
