5 Reasons Seniors Should Maintain an Active Social Life

It may not always be easy to remain active, especially when you have other responsibilities going on, but for seniors, especially those who have retired, an activity not only leads to a higher quality of life, but it also has many mental, emotional, and physical benefits that should not be overlooked.

There are numerous reasons why elderly men and women should maintain an active social life, which is exactly what a quality assisted living community can offer. Assisted living is a great elder care option for those men and women who want to be active, maintain close friendships, be socially engaged, and be surrounded by experienced staff members who can help them should they require assistance at any given time.

Now, as far as reasons for maintaining an active social life are concerned, let’s look at five key reasons now.

First, it leads to better mental health.

This may not work for everyone, but being more active and actively engaged in life helps improve mental health significantly. It lowers the risk of depression, reduces the risk of feeling isolated and lonely, and offers a lower chance of feeling despair and worthlessness.

When a person’s mental health is strong, their physical health can also improve, so the two can most certainly be intertwined to some degree.

Second, a social life encourages seniors to remain physically active.

When you have friends participating in a variety of activities, don’t you want to join them? If those activities are physical in nature, then your physical health can also improve.

Doctors unilaterally agree that elderly men and women should be getting the physical activity that increases their heart rate for at least 15 minutes a day, at a minimum. When you have friends at an assisted living community doing that consistently, you will be more likely to do so as well.

Third, social activity helps seniors feel they belong.

Human beings are social creatures. As such, we crave that feeling of belonging. Yet, as we get older and our friends pass away, our children move away, and the neighborhood around us changes, we can feel as though we don’t belong any longer.

At a quality assisted living community, there are going to be plenty of places throughout the community where residents can feel like they belong once again.

Fourth, it helps to lower stress levels.

Being socially engaged with others has a direct impact on stress. It offers a way to reduce anxiety, loneliness, and stress that goes along with feeling like you’re all alone in life.

Simply talking to a good, trusted friend can do wonders to help you relax and even feel better about some difficult situations.

Lastly, it offers a great support system.

Having a robust social life helps seniors maintain a solid and consistent support system of friends as they get older. When you’re at an assisted living community, you will be surrounded by other men and women your own age or within your age group who can support you through some difficult times, and that’s a wonderful way to go through life and all of its challenges.

If you or an aging loved one is considering a move to Assisted Living in DC Ranch, AZ please contact the caring staff at MD Senior Living today. 480-267-9200