Lisa Conway – FLORIDA TODAY
Q: My daughter says socializing is good for me. Is it?
A: We’re not all born to be the life of the party. However, socialization as we age is vital for maintaining overall health and well-being. Everyone knows about the physical benefits of exercise and a healthy diet, but the mental and emotional advantages of staying socially active are important too, particularly for older adults.
One of the biggest benefits of socializing is its positive impact on mental health! The risk of loneliness and isolation increases with age especially after retirement or the loss of a spouse or close friends. 
Talking with others, sharing experiences, and participating in group activities can boost your mood and self-esteem– and create a sense of belonging and purpose.
Researchers for the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found “the trajectory of loneliness in midlife and old age depended on a person’s gender — with men experiencing more loneliness in midlife and women experiencing more loneliness in old age.”
AARP reports that 45% of women over age 75 live alone. Recently, the retirement group launched www.connect2affect.org to help seniors combat isolation and loneliness. There, you can take an assessment to determine your social isolation risk and use tools to help build social connections.
What about brain health? Playing games, chatting, attending classes, or other activities play a role. Harvard Health concludes, “Socializing can stimulate attention and memory, and sharpen problem-solving skills. You may just be laughing and talking, but your brain is hard at work.” The Harvard Medical School report on a study with 12,000 participants suggests “when people are lonely, their risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia rises by as much as 40%.”
Socializing in later life can also provide a pillar of emotional support. During conversation, we learn how others are coping with life’s changes and challenges. What begins as small talk can lead to friendships and meaningful discussions about health issues or the loss of independence. Having someone to talk to, laugh with and relate concerns can foster resilience.
More seniors than ever populate the various social media platforms, reconnecting with old friends and keeping up with family both near and far. AARP reports seniors aren’t shy about texting either: nearly 70% text family and friends every day. Community activities, volunteering, religious groups and clubs all can provide older adults with a renewed sense of meaning and contribution, leading to longer, more fulfilling lives.
For expert advice, informative events and engaging activities, check out www.OneSeniorPlace.com in Viera and Altamonte Springs– now celebrating 20 years of service to Florida seniors.
Lisa Conway is a Registered Nurse, Certified Dementia Practitioner and Certified Care Manager for One Senior Place Care Management, Viera. Ms. Conway hosts a monthly seminar, ‘Senior Health Friday with Nurse Lisa.’ One Senior Place is a marketplace for resources and provider of information, advice, care and on-site services for seniors and their families. Submit your questions to AskOSP@OneSeniorPlace.com. For immediate help, call 321-751-6771 or visit One Senior Place, The Experts in Aging.
