The Benefits of Socialization for Aging People
Throughout our lives, socializing provides many benefits and is an important part in our development. From nursery, through school, into employment, getting married and raising children, we interact with people constantly. We build friendships, take up sports, join clubs, go to parties–all help us maintain a level of social interaction.
As we get older, it can be difficult to keep up these interactions. We lose touch with friends. The children leave home. Retirement means we no longer have work colleagues. Partners may not be with us anymore.
It’s not so easy to get out and about in the community. Health problems deter us from partying or playing sports. But it’s still important that we have a social life and reap the benefits of socialization.
Connecting with those around you, can benefit your overall health and mental state–no matter how old you are. Having fun with others can help people live healthier, happier lives.
At Fairview Rehab and Nursing Home in Queens, NY, we recognize this and encourage our residents to take part in the many social activities on offer.
Benefits of socialization and quality of life
Research has shown that increased social interaction improves brain function. It allows us to engage and exercise the mind, and provides a short-term boost to cognitive function. Our memory improves and our energy levels are higher.
Socializing helps to reduce symptoms of depression. Interacting with others lifts our self-esteem and can help reduce feelings of isolation, loneliness, and anxiety. It puts us in a positive frame of mind, which gives a boost to our immune system. This leads to a healthier body which means a better quality of life.
Socialization not isolation
Just as a crossword can help stimulate the mind, so can conversation. Discussion allows us to gain both companionship and knowledge from others. It happens over the dinner table or just sitting in the lounge drinking tea. Residents can play board and card games together which help with cognitive aptitude.
Here at Fairview, recreation activities are provided for our residents. There is baking and jewelry making classes, where people can be creative. And live music performances and trips into the local community. We also hold parties throughout the year for the holidays.
Not to mention our pet therapy sessions where residents get to interact with animals, which always provides a talking point!
Everyone is encouraged to take part and our staff is always on hand to provide assistance to those who would like to get the benefits of socialization.
Benefits of socialization for seniors
Socialization provides many benefits as we get older. Interaction and having fun with others are great ways to maintain a healthy body and mind. A general improvement of mood can increase energy levels and lower blood pressure, having a positive effect on longevity.
It’s important that our minds remain active and social interaction allows this to happen. It improves cognitive function, which may go some way towards reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s or dementia.
At Fairview Rehab & Nursing Home, we recognize the benefits of socialization for seniors. Our residents and staff make up a very special community. It’s an environment where everyone socially interacts, which makes for healthier, happier, and sociable aging.
This article contains informational and educational materials and does not replace health or medical advice. For questions or concerns regarding your medical condition or health objectives, speak to a qualified physician or healthcare provider.
I totally agree with you that socializing can be beneficial for our health and that it can bring a positive vibe in our lives. My mom is old and I like to her somewhere we she can socialize. I think bringing her to the rose parade is an excellent idea.