For over half a century, researchers have focused on the importance of community and a sense of belonging as factors boosting human health. Social connections are essential for health and well-being at all ages, but experts have found they are especially important for promoting health in later life. In a bad news, good news situation, we can’t avoid declines in physical, sensory, and cognitive function as we age. The good news is, social functioning remains malleable and can expand as we age – in other words, social connections in later life are strengths that can boost mental health and well-being.
Why do social connections matter? The list is long, including disease prevention, fewer physical health problems, longevity, improved cognitive function, better self-esteem, purpose in life, and a sense of belonging—especially powerful for older adults.
It turns out, people who are confident with their place in the world are less likely to question their faith and beliefs, providing stronger spiritual health. This sense of belonging is so important that seniors who have that sense report their health as higher than those who have a lower sense of community—regardless of their actual state of health.
The pandemic reminded those of us in senior living how important social connections—and being part of a community—are to well-being. Even when we had to stay “socially distant,” the residents in our community remained connected, even if just to open the apartment door and participate in a sing-along, visit with team members throughout the day, or connect with family and friends via Zoom, Skype or Facetime, which we helped to facilitate.
In the world’s longest-running study on happiness (84 years!) researchers with the Harvard Study of Adult Development were amazed that good relationships with others were a key component in the level of happiness participants reported over wealth, health, and faith. In fact, loneliness, especially amongst older adults, is now considered as bad for your health as smoking. This was especially true throughout the pandemic and according to an article published in The Guardian, there is an epidemic of loneliness in America’s older adult population and it is having a direct impact on their mental and physical health. Loneliness can cause symptoms of anxiety and depression and is linked to a lowered immune response, poor cognitive functioning, an increased risk of high blood pressure, and a shorter lifespan.
Seniors Staying Connected
The American Public Health Association found that socialization improves mood, cognition, and memory recall, and is associated with healthy behaviors, including exercise. But as we age it can be more challenging as friends and family may pass away, physical limitations make it harder to get out and visit, and busy families are often caught up in their own lives. Fortunately, there are lots of ways to connect with others socially, but older adults have to be proactive in seeking out these opportunities. Here are some ideas for seniors:
- Exercise classes and walking groups
- Happy hours and group outings
- Regular phone calls and video conferences with friends and family
- Bingo or card games
- Billiards, darts, and other parlor games
- Fitness and other health classes
- Attending lectures at senior living communities (usually free!)
- Join a support group
- Organize a coffee group to talk sports, current events, knitting, or whatever you’re interested in
As a WellAge Senior Living community, Arbor View Senior Living spends a lot of time and energy coordinating events, clubs, and activities for the residents living with us. Residents can decide what they want to partake in from the variety of choices offered daily to connect socially. Even introverts who enjoy a good book in their apartment for most of the day love to see their neighbors at dinner or watch a movie in our brand-new theater. We have dedicated team members whose job is to organize the social events – and get folks involved. If you’d like to learn more, give us a call as we like to think of ourselves as a resource to local seniors and families.
Considering a move to senior living for yourself or a loved one? Call 303-268-4747 or contact us online to learn more about our independent and assisted living apartments and how moving to Arbor View offers seniors access to a built-in community of friends.
