We often hear remaining socially active is an important part of healthy aging, but how exactly do social relationships affect overall senior health? Read on to see what research is saying about robust social activity and its link to increased mental and physical wellbeing in older adults.
Enhanced Mobility
In 2014, researchers from the Drexel University School of Public Health measured seniors’ level of “social capital,” which was determined by a senior’s connectivity to his or her neighbors and surroundings. Those with higher social capital reported greater mobility than seniors who felt they couldn’t depend on their neighbors and didn’t have community connections.
Longer Life Span
Another study, conducted by the University College London, followed a group of 6,500 Brits older than age 52 for a period of eight years. The scientists found that among this group, those in the category deemed least socially active were 26 percent more likely to pass away during the study period than those who actively sought out meaningful social relationships.
Physical Fitness
Although exercise is important for seniors, researchers from the Harvard University School of Public Health found social activities had roughly the same health impact for seniors as 30 minutes of exercise, even when those activities weren’t physical.
Socializing on a regular basis is just one of the many ways older adults can enjoy a high quality of life. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional
at-home care. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Cognitive Preservation
The positive effects of maintaining social relationships later in life aren’t just physical. Researchers from the Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center in Chicago found that among adults with no signs of dementia, those who were social had a 70 percent reduction in the rate of cognitive decline, compared with their least social peers.
Older adults who need regular social stimulation should consider professional in-home care. If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a trusted provider of
Irving senior home care. Our caregivers provide transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping.
Healthy Lifestyles for Socially Active Older Adults
While experts can’t pinpoint why filling up one’s calendar with social outings and activities is so important for mental and physical wellbeing, the proof is in the research. Encourage your loved one to foster social relationships and learn more about the importance of living a socially active and purposeful lifestyle in the golden years.
For families living in
Irving, respite care can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At Home Care Assistance, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home. To create a comprehensive in-home care plan for your parent, give us a call at (817) 591-1580 today.
