No matter what age we are, having people in our lives we can connect with is essential to our overall health. But, for older adults, there are a variety of reasons it can be difficult to remain socially active. Here’s why social connection matters for both older adults and their caregivers—plus tips for how to improve social health while strengthening your support network.

Understanding the Effects of Loneliness and Isolation

As we age, our social circle can become limited due to friends moving, spouses passing away, chronic health conditions, or mobility challenges. With barriers like these, social interactions and the activities of daily living can take more effort than they did before. And fewer social connections, isolation, loneliness, and a more sedentary lifestyle can all lead to real health consequences. In fact, a report by the National Academy of Sciences found that older adults who are socially isolated showed higher rates of poor physical and mental health, increasing the risk of premature death from hypertension, heart disease, depression, anxiety, and Alzheimer’s or other dementias at rates comparable to smoking or obesity!

Why Social Connection is Vital for Overall Health

Meaningful conversation, shared laughter, and quality time with friends are all important when considering how to improve social health. Scientific research has repeatedly shown that, with regular social interaction, older adults are more likely to maintain:

• Emotional health: Social interactions can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are significant risk factors for depression and anxiety.
• Cognitive health: Studies have shown social engagement may help older adults maintain cognitive function longer and even delay the onset of dementia.
• Physical health: Socially active older adults tend to have lower blood pressure and a stronger immune system, as well as greater longevity.
• A sense of purpose: Older adults who stay active and engaged in day-to-day life enjoy greater social connections that can add deeper meaning to their days.

What are the Benefits of Socialization for Caregivers?

The role of family caregiver is essential, but caregivers can’t provide quality care for their loved ones without the bandwidth to care for themselves. And for caregivers, spending quality time with family and friends can be a powerful tactic for stress relief and emotional wellness, as well as motivation for healthy living.

An in-person support network of family and friends can be invaluable for caregivers, but video chatting and phone calls can be great substitutes. Other options include an in-person support group, or, if it’s better for your schedule, a virtual support group. You can also peruse caregiver forums online to learn, share, or just vent. To find a group near you, visit the Caregiver Action Network website, or try using the Eldercare Locator to locate the closest Area Agency on Aging.

What are the Benefits of Socialization for Older Adults?

For older adults, knowing they’re cared for can make a major difference in their quality of life. And support can come in many forms, from lending a sympathetic ear to their feelings, helping with food shopping, to providing transportation to appointments. Besides personal support, access to activities and social engagement are some of the most effective means for reducing loneliness, anxiety, and depression in older adults. And there is no better place to find both than a senior living community!

Understanding the Benefits of Senior Living Communities

Quality senior living communities like Thrive offer a supportive, nurturing environment, a built-in sense of belonging, and personalized care plans designed with older adults’ independence in mind. Other benefits include socialization, engaging activities, enhanced safety, a vibrant atmosphere, and more. Knowing their loved one is safe also provides much-needed peace of mind for caregivers and family members.

Thrive: Supporting Older Adults AND Their Caregivers

At Thrive Senior Living, we’re here to support both older adults and their caregivers in any way we can. So, let us guide you along your caregiving journey! Get started by downloading our free Caregivers Support Guide to get practical tips for building a support system, plus resources for navigating common caregiver issues.

Want to learn more about Thrive Senior Living? Call one of our senior living experts for a conversation, or schedule an in-person tour at one of our communities.