Medical studies show that there are positive impacts of keeping seniors socialized. After retirement, more mature individuals have free time, and unfortunately, not all of these people have the income to travel frequently and may spend time at home. While staying home isn’t a bad thing, too much isolation presents negative health consequences for elderly individuals.
In isolation, older individuals can develop severe mental disorders that cause panic and anxiety. Many retired people who remain in the family home after retirement are most likely to develop these disorders if the family has moved out and away from the person. By reviewing the benefits of socialization, families learn why more seniors should move into communities designed for the elderly.
Longer Life Span
Studies show that elderly individuals that socialize more live longer lives. The health statistics show that seniors are happier with friends and family close by, and by having people in their lives, the individuals have a purpose. By moving into a retirement community, the residents have a chance to make new friends and companions. The communities offer many opportunities for socialization, including monthly events.
Improves Motivation to Stay Fit
With new friends, residents are more motivated to stay fit, and the pals will challenge each other to exercise more. The communities offer exercise rooms where everyone has a chance to use gym equipment and participate in exercise programs.
The staff at the communities set up exercise programs such as yoga and aerobics, which are great for elderly individuals and keep the residents physically fit. Physical fitness contributes to healthier living and lowers the risk of major health issues.
Better Management of Depression
Seniors that are all alone can develop depression and stop taking care of themselves. As the effects of depression sets in, the person can lose interest in all the things the individual once loved. The person is rendered into a debilitative state and could lose sight of their life’s purpose.
By moving into a community, the new residents won’t feel as lonely. The communities offer memory care for residents who are experiencing cognitive issues, too, and these individuals will need more motivation from others.
Fewer Instances of Anxiety
Anxiety is another common impairment for seniors. If an elderly individual doesn’t have family and remains in the family home, the person is more likely to become anxious and fearful of others the more isolated the individual is. Medical research shows that residents in retirement communities that socialize are less anxious and may remain more independent.
Agoraphobia is a mental disorder that develops when a person is isolated for too long, and the illness prevents the individual from leaving their home. Under the circumstances, the person will need someone to manage tasks outside the home. By living in a community and socializing, the person can make friends who make them less anxious and help the residents do more on their own.
Easier Way to Make Lasting Friends
New friends can help seniors stay happier and enjoy life more. This doesn’t mean that the person must socialize every day, but socialization is beneficial for elderly individuals and stops the negative effects of isolation.
Encourages Healthy Eating Habits
By dining with friends, residents will follow healthier eating habits and avoid unhealthy foods. Meal preparation is provided for individuals who live in communities, and the meals are nutritious and won’t worsen health conditions.
Wonderful Homes for All Seniors
At Summerfield of Redlands, we offer amazing apartments for retired and elderly individuals, and the homes provide plenty of space for each resident. Our community offers exceptional services for everyone, and we host events each month to encourage socializing. Families and seniors can learn more about our community by setting up a private tour now.
Socialization is a must for all elderly individuals and prevents major health crises. Medical reports show that decreased socialization after retirement can lead to depression and anxiety. For some individuals, the effects of isolation can have more devastating results such as agoraphobia or dementia. Elderly individuals who are isolated are also less likely to take care of themselves properly and could face major health risks.
A senior-living community offers a private apartment for the residents so that the individuals can decorate the homes in any way. The communities have great amenities such as exercise rooms, dining opportunities, transportation for residents, and a wealth of services to improve quality of life. By learning about the benefits of socialization, families can help their elderly loved ones make sound decisions about where to live and improve their lives.