If you’re looking for a way to ward off dementia and depression, lower blood pressure, reduce the risks of osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis, learn new skills, make new friends, and get to know your family better than ever, you may be surprised at the solution.
Many health issues that seniors face can be kept at bay with extra attention to regular social engagement, but because so many seniors live alone or rarely get the opportunity to socialize, they aren’t always privy to the benefits. Here are some impressive and important health benefits that come along with staying socially active in retirement:
- Social engagement can give you new focus and make every day more fun, which helps to deter depression and anxiety.
- Regular interaction keeps your mind healthy, potentially reducing the risks of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. In a study from the Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center in Chicago, it was found that highly social seniors had a 70 percent lower rate of cognitive decline than their less social peers. (McCoy, “How to Stay Socially Engaged as You Age”, everydayhealth.com.)
- Group exercise is a great way to stay social and can help reduce the risks of cardiovascular problems, some cancers, osteoporosis, and high blood pressure. Additionally, staying active is a great way to boost your overall immune system, warding off countless avoidable illnesses. At Towne Club Windermere, a senior living community located in Cumming, Georgia, residents can participate in group fitness classes like aquatic exercise, a great way to socialize and get in shape!
Here are some ways to be more socially connected and intellectually stimulated, as well as cultivate relationships with friends, family, neighbors and other important people in your life:
- Check your senior living community’s schedule for regular activities that pique your interest.
- Play games that stimulate your mind like crossword puzzles, Sudoku, chess or Bridge.
- Join a fitness center to stay in shape and meet new people.
- If you like kids and are able, help your children or grandchildren with childcare.
- Open a Facebook, Twitter or Instagram account to stay engaged, even when you can’t see your favorite people face-to-face.
- Take a class and learn a new language or a new computer program. Sign up with friends or family, or attend classes alone and meet new friends!
- Pursue a new hobby or passion that you’ve neglected in the past.
- Take a part-time job or call your favorite organization and inquire about regular volunteer work.
- Join (or start) a club. Select something you already enjoy—like gardening, reading, carpentry or art—and attend regular meetings.
At Towne Club Windermere, we offer seniors the opportunity to set aside the responsibilities of home ownership and enjoy resort-style, maintenance-free living. Check out our calendar of events to see how our residents stay social, and come visit to explore our beautiful campus and amenities!
For more information reach out to our team via our Contact Us page or call 770-604-1710 today!
Sources:
everydayhealth.com and University of Rochester Medical Center everydayhealth.com: http://www.everydayhealth.com/senior-health/enhancing-your-life.aspx
University of Rochester Medical Center: https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=1&ContentID=4513
