Social relationships are important at every age in life, but they become even more important as we age. Consistent social interaction through one-on-one friendships or group outings can go a long way in promoting mental wellness.
At Buckner Retirement Services, we strive to ensure that every resident has adequate social interaction every day. Reach out to us today directly at 214.227.7182 to learn more about the social lifestyle at Buckner Retirement Services.
Importance of Socializing for Seniors
The importance of socializing in senior living cannot be overstated. Consistent socializing for seniors is critical to maintaining a healthy physical and mental well-being. Seniors who fail to socialize regularly can easily fall into feelings of isolation and depression, contributing to overall cognitive decline.
Socializing also leads to other positive behaviors like developing new hobbies, learning new skills, and staying physically active. When seniors aren’t socializing, they tend to be less active, less mentally stimulated, and generally less healthy.
Health Benefits of Socializing for Seniors
Socializing in retirement makes seniors feel happier and less alone, but there are many tangible health benefits of socializing for seniors. Some options to consider can include the following:
Reduced Stress
Even though retirement is supposed to be a relaxing and peaceful time, retirees still experience stress. Whether it is stress from everyday life, thinking about the future, or another source, having a way to relieve stress is important for overall health.
Socially active seniors tend to experience lower stress levels and handle them more effectively. Incorporating stress-relieving activities, including socialization, into everyday life helps to keep the negative health effects of stress at bay.
Longer Lifespan
Research has consistently shown that seniors with healthy social lives tend to live longer and be healthier. Health professionals have long recognized the importance of socializing for seniors, and it is even a topic of conversation during health counseling.
Socially active seniors live longer and enjoy a higher quality of life through their later years.
Increased Physical Activity
The healthiest older adults incorporate socialization into their daily fitness routines. Walking or taking an exercise class with a friend or group of friends has endless benefits for both the body and mind.
Seniors who do not socialize regularly are less likely to maintain adequate physical activity levels, which can have real negative health consequences long term.
Reduced Risk of Depression
The risk of developing depression is unfortunately quite high in senior populations. Seniors who are not socially active are much more likely to develop depression and feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Depression not only has an extremely negative effect on mental health, but the side effects of depression manifest in physical symptoms as well.
Improved Self-Esteem
When seniors become isolated, it often negatively impacts their self-esteem. They become more anxious and self-conscious, which can lead to further isolation. Spending time with others and building relationships helps seniors maintain their sense of worth and improves their self-esteem.
Discover More Socializing Options for Seniors at Buckner Retirement Services
At Buckner Retirement Services, we understand the importance of socializing in senior living. That’s why a core part of our programs is to get seniors the daily socialization they need. A few of our programs geared toward senior socialization include:
- Resident lifestyle program
- Regular community events
- Group outings
- Yoga classes
- Interest clubs
- Cooking demonstrations
Our dedicated staff provides personalized service, so seniors who prefer to socialize in smaller groups have opportunities to do that, and seniors who enjoy large group outings have those opportunities.
Get in touch with us today by calling 214.227.7182 to talk to one of our staff about the socialization opportunities for seniors at Buckner Retirement Services.