The Importance of Staying Social as We Age

social seniorsRegardless of your age, it is important not only be physically active, but socially active as well. For seniors especially, staying social does more than just give you something to do, it also has wide ranging health benefits.

According to University of Rochester Medical Center, continued social interaction has the potential to reduce seniors’ risk for the following conditions.

  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Some cancers
  • Osteoporosis
  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Mental health issues including depression

For caregivers interested in boosting the activity of the seniors in their life, Helping Hearts Foundation has a few tips that can help.

Volunteer

For seniors who are physically able, volunteering can be a fun and rewarding experience to try. There are volunteering opportunities everywhere, so choose to do something you love. Whether you are walking dogs at the local animal shelter, weeding the garden in your town park or serving meals at a homeless shelter, getting active in your community will give you an opportunity to meet new people while doing something that makes you feel good.

Take a Class

Keeping up with hobbies and interests is another way for seniors to stay social. Fitness and art classes can both be tons of fun, and will provide an opportunity for seniors to meet other like-minded individuals. Finding a class that you love will give you something to look forward to each week, which makes time fly so much faster.

Call Up Friends

The best way to stay social is in person, as it helps seniors get out of the home and get active, but phone calls also have their place. Keeping in touch with friends and relatives who live out of town is always nice, and whether you plan for a weekly phone call or send an email every evening, having some scheduled “talk time” is beneficial both mentally and physically.

With locations in California and Nevada, Helping Hearts Foundations provides in home living assistance to seniors who need a bit of assistance maintaining their independence. To learn more about the services we provide, visit us online or contact us by phone at 916-368-7200 (CA) or 702-755-6548 (NV).

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