Four Reasons Why Seniors Need Social Connections
Human beings were created to connect with one another. From infancy through adulthood, friendships and relationships contribute to an individual’s overall health and well-being. Studies have shown the detrimental impact infants and toddlers experience when neglected. In fact, when little ones don’t receive the love and care that they need, the effects can follow them through their entire adult life. Interpersonal relationships are even more crucial for seniors, especially because their social opportunities tend to decline with age. They retire from jobs, which once offered mental and social engagement. Their families grow up and may move out of the area in order to start their own lives. They experience the loss of friends or a spouse. Close friends could even decide to relocate so that they’re closer to their own adult children and grandchildren. There are many reasons why seniors experience a decline in their interpersonal relationships as they age. However, without social connections, seniors are vulnerable to the adverse effects of an isolated social life. Here are four reasons why seniors need social connections, along with a few tips to start rebuilding those interpersonal relationships.
Social Connections Keeps Loneliness at Bay
Without a supportive social network, seniors can experience severe loneliness. Loneliness can then lead to depression, as well as a wealth of other declining health conditions. Even when surrounded by family and friends, seniors can experience feelings of loneliness. What’s important is that the senior truly feels like they’ve connected with another individual. It’s not enough to just sit around a family member’s house, attend church or a group lecture, or people watch at the mall. In order to keep loneliness at bay, seniors need to participate and engage in the relationship. So, the next time your daughter invites you over for dinner, accept the invitation and plan to engage in family game night. Choose to participate in an event instead of passively observing.
Social Connections Prevent Disease
Want to live longer and healthier? Start connecting with others. A longitudinal study by Dr. Patricia Thomas found that seniors experienced lowered cognitive and physical limitations over time as their socialization increased. Seniors who have strong interpersonal relationships have fewer physical health problems, live longer, recover quicker from illness, and experience a longer life span. If your social calendar is lack-luster, consider joining a senior group that shares a common interest of yours. Whether it’s a senior fitness class at your local gym, a senior Bible study at a nearby church, or a support group geared towards seniors, knowing that you will be amongst your peers can give you confidence to try something new.
Social Connections Builds Self-Esteem
Seniors that do not have strong social connectedness often have low self-esteem, in addition to a decline in their physical and psychological health. Social connections give seniors a sense of value and purpose. Whether it’s discussing the HOA meeting with the neighbor, helping a friend problem-solve, or reassuring your adult son that he’ll survive the “terrible twos” stage that his son has entered, engaging in conversation confirms that seniors are needed and wanted. If you want to improve your social connections and self-esteem, try volunteering. Volunteering not only gives you a purpose, something to get up for each day or week, but it can make meeting other people less intimidating.
Social Connections Ward Off or Slow Dementia
Many seniors fear losing their minds to dementia. One way to prevent dementia is to stay socially active. A study published by Cambridge University found that socially active seniors reduced their potential for cognitive decline by as much as 70 percent, compared with peers who were less social. Not only is socializing mentally engaging, but it also is a stress reliever. Social interactions are healing, whereas lack of social contact is stressful. A great way to ward off dementia and boost your brain power is to learn something new. Connect with old friends through social media. Learn how to engage with others virtually or surprise your grandkids with a video call.
Visiting Angels Chesterfield-Richmond understands the importance of staying connected with friends and family, especially in your senior years. That’s why we offer a holistic approach that entails care for the individual, both inside and outside of the home. Not only do our caregivers provide another social connection for you throughout the week, but they work hard to form a genuine companionship with you, giving you something to look forward to each visit. Don’t let another lonely day pass you by. Contact us by calling 804-423-6500 and start your journey with Visiting Angels today.