Studies show that seniors who have opportunities to socialize stay healthier and could be happier in their golden years. Senior communities that offer clubhouses and living spaces that facilitate socialization are better choices for seniors. Communities such as ours at Chelsea Senior Living offer activities that meet the needs of seniors and present engaging opportunities.
Socialization is a must for all seniors and offers a wealth of benefits. This doesn’t mean seniors don’t need time alone. It just indicates that, if they have friends and communicate with others, seniors are more likely to be happier.
Better Cognitive Function
If seniors stay social and active, they can increase their cognitive function and retain more memories. The aging process can cause memory issues and decrease the senior’s ability to do things on their own.
A decrease in cognitive function is a common sign of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. At the onset of the disease, it is necessary for the senior to complete tasks to improve memory and cognitive function. In Assisted Living communities, seniors start these activities and Memory Care services.
Improving Their Physical Health
In senior living communities, seniors have several options for staying social and active. This could improve their physical health and get them to exercise more often. Improved physical health could reduce symptoms and signs of serious illnesses.
Arthritis is a common disorder as we age. If residents have arthritis, they can reduce the pain and remain more mobile if they are active and social. They will have others to encourage them to exercise more and get treatments that improve their conditions.
Chelsea’s partnership with FOX Rehabilitation has proven to be critical in improving our residents’ physical well-being. And residents do not have to leave the community for their appointment!
Good Emotional Health
By staying social, the seniors have someone to share their dining experiences with, and they have friends to keep them company. Emotional health is just as important as physical health, and if the senior doesn’t take care of their emotional health, they may notice a decline in their overall health.
If the senior doesn’t have someone to confide in, they could have bottled up emotions that lead to heightened stress levels, and this could lead to high blood pressure or depression. Friendships are just as important to seniors as anyone else, and a group of friends could make life better.
At Chelsea, our partners at Elderology provide mental and behavioral therapy services on site. For residents, the transition from their old home to their new one can be daunting and, initially, upsetting. Elderology’s team helps residents who may be experiencing a tough time adjusting or for residents who need emotional support.
An Improved Immune System
An increase in immune function helps seniors stay healthier, and if they are more social and active, this could give them the boost to the immune system they need. As a result of spending time with others, seniors are happier, and the positive changes in their mood can improve their health.
The immune system must perform at top levels to fight off illnesses and keep seniors from facing serious health risks. Studies show that seniors who spend more time outside the home and talk to others have stronger immune systems.
Get a Better Night’s Rest
Seniors who are more social and active will get a better night’s sleep, and they won’t have any issues falling or staying asleep. If they socialize more often, seniors are more likely to go for walks and get enough exercise with their friends. Seniors who have more friends they communicate with frequently feel safer and won’t be stressed when going to sleep.
Seniors that socialize more are also more likely to go outside and into living spaces other than their apartments or rooms. This is highly beneficial for seniors, and they could rest far better if they have friends in the community with them.
Staying Social Helps Them Live Longer
A longer life is possible for seniors who do not isolate themselves from others. Studies show that seniors who isolate themselves from others are more likely to become depressed or experience mood disorders. They are more likely to need medications that manage anxiety and other disorders that could emerge.
If they aren’t social, they may stop talking to people, and if they have a progressive illness such as Alzheimer’s disease, isolation could make things worse for them. Seniors who isolate themselves are more likely to experience more symptoms at a faster rate.
Building Wonderful Friendships
Seniors who live in a community have a better chance of meeting individuals in their age group who have the same or similar interests. This makes it easier for them to cultivate new friendships and create their own social groups. These options are better for seniors who need someone to talk to and a friend to spend time with around their home.
Lasting senior friendships help seniors get more out of life and have better experiences. Senior friendships are great especially when residents aren’t getting many visits from their loved ones. Lasting friendships prevent seniors from feeling lonely or forgotten.
Where to Find Great Senior Communities
Chelsea Senior Living offers exceptional Assisted Living and Independent Living opportunities for seniors. Residents living in our uniquely designed apartments have access to all the great amenities that we offer.
And once you’re a part of The Chelsea Family, you are eternally connected to our wonderful team, residents, and community. You are encouraged to join us for all activities, parties, and events; spend time with residents by joining clubs, playing games, and watching movies; and learning a new skill or hobby.
Seniors and their families can learn more about all the services and amenities we offer by giving one of our communities a call or schedule a tour by filling out a contact form now!
