How Increased Social Interactions Impact Seniors

Many seniors strive to remain independent for as long as possible as they age. While this is a great goal, it can also be very isolating. According to a study conducted by the University of Southern California, 43% of seniors reported feeling lonely or isolated. This problem has only been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic as vulnerable elderly populations are disproportionately affected by social distancing efforts to stop the spread.

Health Risks Associated with Isolation in Seniors

While it’s true that social distancing is a helpful tool in combating the spread of COVID-19, especially for those at highest risk of severe disease, humans are naturally social beings. Prolonged feelings of isolation, even for a self-proclaimed introvert, can be incredibly harmful to an individual’s mental health. These negative health impacts can extend to physiological disorders as well, including:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Hypertension
• Coronary Artery Disease
• Cardiac Failure
• Alzheimer’s Disease
  
  

The Positive Impact of Socialization for Seniors

The good news is increasing social interactions is an easy way to combat these negative health outcomes. In fact, interacting with people outside of your family circle has been linked to a less sedentary lifestyle and an overall longer lifespan.

Now that you’re familiar with the positive impact that increased social interactions can have for seniors, it’s time to take action! While it may seem daunting at first, being more social is all about spending time with other people who enjoy the same types of activities as you.

If you’re struggling with ways to get social (either for yourself or a loved one) here are some of our favorite ways to get out there:

• Join a book club
• Attend a cooking class
• Try out group exercise activities
• Volunteer in your community

Adding a caregiver to your support network is also a great way to expand your social circle. Caregivers naturally add routine and structure into a senior’s independent lifestyle, and can become a lifelong friend as well. To learn more about how a caregiver can fit into your life give us a call at 610.365.7605!