Published: May 29, 2023
Most people are innately social and are most likely to thrive with an extensive network of friends and family. This is true throughout life and can become even more crucial for older adults. Unfortunately, life events can leave seniors isolated, affecting their physical, emotional, and mental health. Making new friends and developing an active social life can make a huge difference. With that in mind, many older New York citizens move to retirement communities that allow them to make new friends, experience a more active lifestyle, and enjoy dining with others.
Isolation Can Be Dangerous for Seniors
Many older New Yorkers live alone and spend far less time with others than when they were young. Families or friends move away or are lost, and circumstances make it difficult for seniors to socialize. However, lonely seniors often begin to thrive once they move into an Independent Living community. While everyone is different, and many people enjoy spending time alone, even the most independent have fuller, healthier lives when they spend at least some time with others.
Anyone can experience loneliness, but seniors often become isolated, which is different and dangerous. Older adults who have lost a spouse, have mobility issues, are retired, or lack transportation can become isolated, leading to depression. According to The National Institute on Aging, isolation can impact seniors’ health and has been linked to high blood pressure, cognitive issues, obesity, and a weakened immune system.
There May Be Obstacles to Senior Socialization
Older adults who want a more active social life may become isolated because obstructions make it difficult to meet or spend time with friends or family. Common challenges include:
- Limited mobility
- Cognitive decline
- Loss of a loved one
- Fewer family members and friends
In many cases, elders resolve many of these hurdles when they move to retirement homes in vibrant communities. Some issues are more challenging to deal with than others, but it is crucial that seniors or their families take steps to eliminate isolation. Community residents can get the help they need with physical or cognitive issues and enjoy an active social life.
Socially Active Adults Are Healthier
There is evidence that older adults who spend time with others are more active and engaged, resulting in better overall health. About seven million older U.S. residents suffer from depression, which makes it difficult to stay interested and involved. Those who can talk to family or friends about their concerns have less stress and sleep better. Socialization improves sleep, which is crucial for good health.
Older adults with busy social lives are typically more active, which boosts their health. Staying active improves blood pressure and boosts the immune system. Regular exercise helps eliminate or reduce aches and pains.
Enjoying Recreation with Others Has Cognitive Benefits
Social interaction has an impact on the brain. Per the Association of American Retired Persons (AARP), research shows that higher levels of social engagement are crucial to maintaining good mental health and warding off dementia. While scientists are unsure how socialization affects the brain, they can measure the positive results. An extensive network of friends and close relationships benefits cognitive and memory function.
Older adults often have fewer social interactions than younger people, but seniors have more positive experiences. Studies show that older adults report having more intense positive emotions and less intense negative feelings with close social partners. Seniors also get more enjoyment out of the social experiences they have.
Benefits of Dining with Friends
For people, dining is more than just a way to get nutrition. The process of choosing what to eat, enjoying the presentation, and consuming food combine to create an enjoyable sensory experience. Eating meals with others adds a social dimension. Enjoying meals together has always been a crucial part of the human experience.
However, older adults without a social network often eat alone. Because dining in groups is so closely associated with happiness, seniors who routinely eat alone can lapse into depression.
One of the benefits of a senior community is the opportunity for residents to enjoy a fine dining experience with friends. Seniors have the chance to enjoy lively conversation and companionship with delicious food. Communities offer carefully prepared menus served in well-appointed dining rooms.
Strategies For Increasing Socialization
It is essential that families ensure seniors are healthy and mobile enough to enjoy an active social life. Older adults also need reliable transportation. There are many ways seniors can create a social network and ward off isolation. For example:
- Use religious and community social services
- Consider volunteering in the community
- Nurture healthy relationships with children and grandchildren
- Develop a sense of purpose by helping at church, caring for a pet, or pursuing hobbies
The Role of Senior Living Communities
Everyone has a different need for recreation and companionship. For some, being active two or three days a week is enough for them to remain happy and entertained. However, others may want a more structured environment or need help staying active and involved. New York retirement communities offer a solution.
Communities are designed with seniors’ overall well-being in mind. A Well-trained staff coordinates efforts to ensure residents can choose from a full schedule of activities, get involved with hobbies, and make new friends.
Living in a retirement community ensures that older adults are well-nourished and healthy. Professionals design delicious menus that can accommodate special needs. They also prepare memorable holiday and special occasion meals to help maintain a positive atmosphere.
Residents also have the support needed to enjoy activities to the fullest. They can access medical care and get help with physical or cognitive limitations. Staff members monitor seniors to ensure they have the best possible quality of life.
Socialization is crucial for everyone’s well-being, but especially for older adults. When seniors become isolated, they are more prone to certain diseases and cognitive impairment. Older adults with large family and friend networks are healthier and happier. Families can help isolated seniors become more socially active, and many older adults enjoy a better quality of life when they move into a senior community.
The Residences at Plainview is a senior living community in Plainview, N.Y. The caring staff is committed to providing a safe, secure, homelike environment that allows seniors to enjoy a warm, vibrant atmosphere and excellent quality of life.