Stay Social During Your Retirement Years
Retirement is a time of life that everyone looks forward to. Retirees have the time they’ve always wanted to spend on their hobbies, go on new adventures, and explore new interests. While it’s important to find independent activities as a retiree, it’s also important to get adequate social time.
The Importance of Staying Social
Socialization is a key part of both physical and mental health. Without socialization, seniors can easily begin to experience feelings of loneliness and isolation, which lead to other negative side effects, like a lack of motivation.
In addition to the negative mental health side effects, there are also negative side effects on physical health. Seniors who experience loneliness are at a higher risk of developing a number of conditions, including:
High blood pressure
Obesity
Heart disease
Anxiety
Depression
Weakened immune system
Cognitive decline
Social interaction is an important piece of staying healthy as a senior. Even a little time every day or week with friends and family can make all the difference.
Ways to Socialize as a Senior
It can sometimes be more difficult to make friends as an adult, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. There are many ways to stay engaged in the community and make new friends as a senior.
Join a Club
Clubs are one of the easiest ways for seniors to meet new people. From book clubs to walking clubs to nature clubs, there is a club that fits every interest. You can connect with new friends who share common interests, and most clubs have set times they meet each week or month.
Volunteer
Volunteering is one of the best ways for seniors to stay social. Not only do you get to interact with other volunteers and make new friends, but you are also giving back to your community in a meaningful way. Consider volunteering by serving meals, walking dogs at a rescue organization, or picking up trash.
Connect in the Community
Another great way for seniors to stay social is simply by attending community events. If you live in assisted living, that can mean attending events in your building. If you live independently, check with your local chamber or city center to find out what events are happening near you.
Stay Social in Senior Living in Portland
Whether you live independently or in a retirement home in Portland, staying social is a critical part of maintaining overall wellness. Senior living communities have the added benefit of built-in opportunities for socialization without having to plan or travel.
That’s why more seniors are choosing to transition to senior living earlier rather than later. It is well-documented how important socialization is for senior health, so make it a priority today.