Why Socializing is Good for Seniors’ Health

More and more studies support the idea that socializing is good for seniors’ overall health.  In fact in an article by the US News & World Report, they point to a study done by the Rush University Medical Center that agrees.  The study indicates that “elderly people with the highest levels of social activity -- doing things such as visiting friends, going to parties or attending church -- showed much lower levels of cognitive decline than those who were the least socially active.”

Researchers, from the on-going Rush Memory and Aging Project, studied 1,138 adults, average age 80, for five years.  It found that seniors who were the most socially active experienced “only one-fourth the rate of cognitive decline as those with the lowest levels of social activity.”  The results were independent of other factors that influence cognitive decline such as age, physical activity and general health. 

In another research project called BRAVO, headed by Dr. Nicole Anderson, a clinical neuropsychologist at Baycrest Health Sciences in Toronto, reports that, “"Engaging in more social activities was related to better self-reported health and less loneliness and more life satisfaction.”  Dr. Anderson noted that social connectedness seems to help the immune system work better, lower stress hormone levels and offers psychological benefits. 

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Fountain Hills, we agree that socialization is important.  This is why our community is set up to create a home-like environment with comfy sitting areas and restaurant-style dining so our residents have plenty of opportunities to enjoy one another’s company.  In addition we offer lots of fun and meaningful activities that encourage socializing.  MorningStar of Fountain Hills is one of the newest MorningStar Senior Living communities and will open this fall. 

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we exemplify the best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting.  We invite you to schedule a visit to see our model suites and learn more about assisted living in the Scottsdale/Fountain Hills area.

Sources:health.usnews.com/health-news/family-health/brain-and-behavior/articles/2011/05/04/socializing-may-keep-elderly-minds-sharp

cbc.ca/news/health/socializing-key-to-successful-aging-1.1260922