While it might not be a surprise that regular exercise is important to your health as you age, staying socially active in retirement is just as important. Issues such as living alone, hearing loss and chronic health issues can make it difficult to make social connections. Finding yourself socially isolated and feeling lonely, can have a profound effect on your physical, mental and emotional well-being. If you’re looking for more motivation to flex your social muscles, we’re going to share the top five reasons why social interaction is important for older adults.
5 Benefits of Social Interaction in Retirement
1. See a Boost in Your Physical Health
Why is social health important in retirement? Well, one of the main reasons is how beneficial it can be for your physical health. Taking time to regularly interact in social settings can help strengthen your immune system, lower your blood pressure and help take your mind off of any physical pain you might be experiencing. In addition, meaningful social connections often lead to more physical activity like taking a walk with a neighbor or attending an exercise class with friends or family.
2. Find a Strong Sense of Belonging
Social activities like going to a weekly book club not only help you stay in contact with people who you care about, but they also give you a sense of belonging. Having a place where you belong, can add a sense of purpose to life. Plus, it’s a great way to grow your circle of friends and bolster your social support system. There’s a strong peace of mind that comes from knowing you have a place or community where you belong.
3. Being Social Improves Your Mental Health
Mental health has become a main health concern for adults and seniors across the U.S. The good news is that consistently interacting with friends, family and acquaintances, offers a healthy way to cope with stress while reducing your risk for depression. Being social can also lower your risk of developing or slow down memory conditions like Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.
4. Social Interaction Helps You Sleep
Being socially isolated can lead to anxiety, depression and disrupted sleep. Regular social activity in retirement can help you build and maintain meaningful relationships. Having fun and spending time with friends increases your activity, which can make it easier for you to maintain a healthy sleep schedule.
5. Socializing Keeps Your Mind Sharp
Similar to doing a daily crossword puzzle or going to trivia night, socializing helps you keep your mind sharp. When you socialize, you’re actually helping your brain to hone cognitive reasoning and memory skills. For example, when you see a friend at a club or other event, your brain works to remember information they shared with you during the last time you met. Every social interaction is a chance for you to exercise your brain.
Discover Why Social Health Is Important at Heritage Senior Living
If you’re ready to make new friends and forge meaningful social connections, the communities at Heritage Senior Living can help. Our independent living services are designed to provide opportunities so you can develop a more socially fulfilling and relaxing lifestyle. From joining clubs, to attending exercise classes to taking scheduled trips to local hotspots in the community, life at a Heritage Senior Living community is filled with plenty of ways to be more social. Contact us today to learn more about how you can enjoy an independent living lifestyle at Heritage Senior Living.
