Before looking at all the ways regular social interaction benefits elderly loved ones, it’s important to understand the detrimental outcomes that are caused by the lack of social engagement. There are serious physical and mental risks associated with isolation and loneliness for seniors.

Loneliness:

Being by yourself every now and then isn’t bad at all but being constantly alone has a major impact on your mental health. A study carried out by UC San Francisco showed a link between functional decline and a shorter lifespan for elders above the age of 60.

Depression:

It’s no surprise that people who experience consistent loneliness are also prone to depression; there are many studies that indicate the same.

Reduced physical activity:

When people are lonely, they typically don’t engage in physical activities; which, in turn, affects their physical health.

Knowing the physical and mental risks linked to loneliness, it’s better to protect your elderly loved ones from potential illnesses and make sure they socialize.

Let’s look at the benefits they’ll receive from engaging socially:

1. Better Mental Health

As you get older, it gets harder to maintain social relationships but from extensive scientific research we know how important it is to socialize.

Just talking to neighbors every other day improves the quality of life of elderly individuals. It’s crucial for seniors to stimulate their brains by participating in community events and volunteering.

2. Better Physical Health

There are numerous physical health benefits to socializing including improving heart and brain health. Regular exercise prevents Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, osteoporosis, arthritis and even some cancers.

Joining an exercise class catered specifically to seniors won’t just help them stay fit but will also give them plenty of chances to socialize.

3. Enhanced Cognitive Function

A study carried out using 2,249 Californian women found that elderly participants that had large social groups had a lower risk of developing dementia. According to the study, even the size of the social network matters. Participants with large social circles have a 26% lower chance of developing mentally debilitating conditions like dementia.

4. Improved Safety

Being surrounded by people helps elderly individuals prevent falls and other injuries. If they do happen to get injured, others can call for help right away.

Due to these reasons and so many more, it’s better for elderly individuals to join a senior living community.

AvantGarde Senior Living in Encino provides luxurious housing community for your elderly loved ones. We offer seniors a range of amenities including an onsite movie theatre, pool table, hair salon and even an 8-hole putting course! Our facilities were designed to promote social engagement and to give your loved ones the care they deserve!

With all the amenities we offer and the care provided by our trained staff, you can rest assured that your elderly loved ones are never lonely.

Contact us at (818) 881-0055for more information.