A healthy social life is one of the most valuable possessions for every senior. However, as we get older, it can be quite difficult for us to create and maintain social connections. Because of this, one of the issues that most seniors have to deal with is isolation and loneliness.
Whether seniors live with a caregiver or by themselves, it’s important to ensure that they are interacting with others and enjoying the benefits of social engagements.
While seniors benefit considerably from spending time with similarly aged peers, they also see benefits from spending time with the younger generation. Doing so helps both groups, as seniors gain connection and can experience better mental health, while youth learn from seniors, often increasing their respect for older generations.
Importance of Social Connection
1. Promotes Overall Mental Health
Many seniors have a hard time building their social life after they retire. And this can lead to feelings of social isolation and loneliness.
Seniors don’t lack the skills to socialize and make new friends. However, they don’t have as many opportunities to engage with their peers, especially when mobility becomes difficult or some of their friends die.
Various research studies have shown that social isolation can lead to anxiety, depression, and a decline in cognitive function. Social events and activities that enhance friendships are likely to improve seniors’ mental health and well-being.
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Having a healthy social life offers a variety of other important benefits to seniors, such as helping with:
- Building self-confidence
- Boosting mood
- Promoting sleep
- Increasing self-worth
- Reducing PTSD symptoms
2. Reduces The Risk Of Cognitive Decline
Various research studies have shown that having a healthy social life can help in reducing the risk of dementia and cognitive decline among seniors by nearly 70 percent. It’s one of the reasons why older people stayed happier. Regular social interactions can do this by:
- Reducing symptoms of depression and promoting sleep – Researchers believe that better sleep and elimination of symptoms of anxiety and depression come from spending time with others. Poor sleep and depression can lead to rapid cognitive decline.
- Promoting brain growth – Studies have shown that seniors with extensive social networks have remarkable cognitive abilities. This is because managing social dynamics demands the usage of brain capacity. Older people with large social networks usually have big brain volumes. And this reduces the risk of dementia.
3. Promotes An Active Lifestyle
Older people who go the extra mile to build relationships with young people outside their social circles are more likely to engage in physical activities. That’s because they’ll have to leave their homes to engage with others.
And this results in an active lifestyle. Staying active can help in promoting cardiovascular health, reducing hypertension and mortality rates, lowering blood pressure, and reducing the risk of rheumatoid arthritis and certain cancers.
How Seniors Can Bond with Youth
Here are a few simple ideas that can help seniors and youth bond and reap the benefits of their interactions:
1. Gardening
This is one of the best activities that help people connect. And it’s good for all age groups. Gardening can help both parties grow flowers, herbs, or vegetables together. It’s a great social activity that promotes an active lifestyle.
In fact, gardening is something you can do as a whole family, getting every generation involved at the same time.
2. Listen to Podcasts
The youth can spend their free time listening to podcasts with elderly people. Podcasts will not only help seniors explore new ideas but also inspire the youth. Podcasts will help both parties grow professionally and personally. After the session, you can discuss what you’ve learned and share more ideas.
Plus, there are many different podcasts out there, covering every style and topic imaginable.
3. Play Board Games
Board games are another fun option. They work well for people across multiple generations. Some are even designed to be played with people of differing skills and cognitive abilities.
Board games can be powerful cognitively, as they help seniors to stay engaged and problem solve. They’re also a great way to have fun and build strong social connections.
The trick is to find games that all parties enjoy playing. Ones that leave some people frustrated or stressed aren’t any good at all.
4. Watch Movies
Watching TV shows and movies with your loved ones is one of the best ways to strengthen your bond. It is an inexpensive and easy recreational activity that you can do with people of all age groups. Movies can encourage seniors to cultivate a positive mental attitude and evoke positive emotions.
Conclusion
Senior social networks play a critical role in their health and wellbeing – and there is power in building relationships with youth, rather than just people the senior’s own age.
As you have seen, when the two parties interact, there will be respect and understanding. There are a lot of valuable lessons that youth can learn from older people. When seniors are valued in society, the youth will avoid neglecting and abusing them. Elderly people should also consider seeking professional help when they are stressed, anxious, or depressed.
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