Socialization is important; it does not matter the stage of life. During adolescence, we learn and understand how to successfully communicate and socialize. As we age, we use this knowledge to interact with classmates and coworkers and build personal and professional relationships.McClellan Senior Living believes in the power of community and encourages socialization and meaningful connections. As an all-inclusive senior living community in Anniston, Alabama, we want to share how staying connected and engaging with others can help individuals promote healthy aging.
Prevents Cognitive Decline
Holding a meaningful conversation requires more effort than you may realize. It is not mindlessly speaking back and forth; it requires focus and memory to fully engage and respond appropriately.
When talking to someone else, you not only have to listen to what they are saying, but interpret their body language, analyze the information shared, and use your short-term memory to recall what has already been said. Socialization and communicating with friends and peers can help to prevent cognitive decline by exercising the mind and stimulating short-term memory.
Engaging in meaningful conversations with others can even help prevent Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. A study conducted by Dr. Karen Ertel “found that those people who were socially integrated (socially active) had less than half the memory decline of those who were socially isolated.”
“The mental stimulation involved in face-to-face interactions plays a crucial role in staving off cognitive decline and can actually be a useful way to improve current cognition over time by seeking out meaningful human interactions that help us form bonds that support brain health and overall health (psychologytoday.com).”
KEEP YOUR MIND SHARP WITH THESE ACTIVITIES
Improves Self-Esteem & Provides Sense of Purpose
We all need something to look forward to. Waking up in the morning with a sense of purpose helps promote healthy aging and overall well-being, and socialization can help create this purpose in our lives.
When you form meaningful relationships, you feel a sense of belonging and purpose. You are part of a community that values you and your contributions. People look forward to connecting and engaging with you, making you feel appreciated. You feel accepted, which boosts your self-esteem and confidence.
Socialization and connecting with others help us to create a sense of purpose and belonging in our lives. McClellan Senior Living fosters an environment where individuals can find this purpose. Our team members believe in connecting with each resident on a personal level to deliver more than just care, but create a relationship that enhances their quality of life.
Increases Physical Activity
When you are part of a social circle, you are more likely to participate in physical activity. Whether it’s simply walking down the street to meet a friend for lunch or taking an exercise class with a neighbor, interacting with others encourages us to get out and get moving.
Even on days that you do not feel like being active, your friends may encourage you to come out and join them. One study even found “that people who exercised in a group rather than on their own had decreased stress levels and had better mental and physical well-being at the end of a 12-week fitness program (medicalnewstoday.com).”
Reduces Stress Levels
High amounts of stress can lead to adverse health issues, so finding ways to manage and decrease feelings of stress is important.
According to HelpGuide, “face-to-face interaction triggers a cascade of hormones that counteracts the body’s defensive ‘fight-or-flight’ response. It’s nature’s natural stress reliever.”
Socializing with individuals you feel comfortable around can create a relaxing environment. When you are enjoying yourself in the company of your friends and family, you may find that your stress levels decrease as you relax into the atmosphere.
Enhance Your Social Life at McClellan Senior Living
At McClellan Senior Living, our residents and team members know and care about one another, and interact and engage every day. This is what makes our close-knit community such a great place to live.
Socialization comes naturally in our community because we all view each other like our own family members. Our senior living community in Anniston, Alabama, understands the importance of socialization and cultivates a comfortable, home-like environment to promote healthy aging.
To learn more about becoming a part of our family, contact a member of the McClellan Senior Living team or visit our website.