Healthy Aging and the Benefits of Socialization
At every stage in our lives, socializing and building relationships with others is essential in development, empathy, and overall well-being. Humans are social creatures, and even the most introverted among us crave intimacy and connection at times.
As we age, though, it can become more challenging to form and maintain relationships. You may retire and lose touch with your coworkers; your friends may move away to be closer to grandchildren, or a health concern may prevent you from socializing as much as you’d like. Because of these and other factors, older adults are at the highest risk for experiencing physical and social isolation.
Life at a retirement community like Uplands Village can combat the risk of isolation in older adults by providing opportunities for engagement, interaction, and socialization. Located in Pleasant Hill, Tennessee, our vibrant community is perfect for individuals looking to live with purpose and make the most of their retirement. We’re looking at how socialization is vital for healthy aging and how life at Uplands Village can make it possible.
Knowing the Risks of Isolation
In addition to feelings like boredom and loneliness, social isolation has also been associated with physical health concerns. Experts have linked social isolation with an increased risk of dementia, depression, chronic conditions like heart disease and high blood pressure, and stroke.
Fortunately, senior living communities offer countless opportunities for adults to socialize and interact with others in a meaningful way that encourages healthy aging.
Benefits of Socialization
Encourages Physical Activity
Socializing and interacting with others can encourage healthy habits in other areas of your life. For example, one of the most accessible activities to do with another person is going on a walk, which is a great way to get outside and get your body moving. Other social activities can also encourage fitness, like going to an aerobics class with a friend or joining a local hiking club.
Just as socialization encourages exercise, the opposite may be true as well. A study by the University of Minnesota found that physically active adults tend to be more social and have more friends.
Reduces Stress
Having a robust social circle and relationships with others is also crucial in reducing feelings of stress and anxiety. Spending time with others allows us to take a break from focusing inward and enables us to bring our attention outward and take our minds off whatever is bothering us. Plus, a social group can help provide emotional support, advice, or simply a friendly face.
All of these factors can ultimately reduce stress levels, which is instrumental in healthy aging and longevity.
Enhances Cognitive Functioning
Socialization isn’t just valuable for physical health. Research has shown that those who frequently socialize with others have sharper cognition, increased memory, and even a decreased risk of dementia and other neurodegenerative diseases. Interacting with others can also improve communication and empathy skills.
Socialization and Senior Living
Not only do senior living communities encourage independence and healthy aging, but they also promote socialization and relationship building on many fronts. At Uplands Village, our unique life plan community embraces people from all walks of life and encourages them to unite through physical activities, community groups, and advocacy efforts.
Some examples of how we bring our resident members together include:
- Guided fitness classes, such as yoga, Tai Chi, and dance
- Volunteer opportunities within and outside of the community
- Quilting and knitting groups
- Assistance with the management and administration of Uplands Village
- The Green Team, our on-site Environmental Quality Committee
- Non-denominational church and worship services
- Activities and games, including our Billiard Club
- Book Club
- And so much more!
We understand how instrumental socialization is to mental and physical wellness and overall healthy aging. That’s why each of our activities, programs, and groups is intentionally designed to help resident members build relationships with each other which improves mental, physical, emotional and spiritual health.
At Uplands Village, we encourage a purpose-driven life full of engagement, relationships, and service. Visit our website to discover what life looks like at our progressive life plan community in Cumberland County, Tennessee.