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Being Socially Connected Is Good for The Mind, Body And Soul

Post date: 2/19/2023

A life filled with happiness and wellbeing requires balance. When you think about wellbeing for adults, physical health and maintaining memory may come to mind first. But mental health shouldn’t be overlooked. Strengthening mental health through a healthy social life as we age is important, and it can prevent someone from experiencing loneliness or symptoms of depression.

According to a study by Mental Health in America, more than two million of the 34 million Americans age 65 and older suffer from a form of depression. Depression and other mood disorders are often difficult to identify in older adults because they may show different symptoms than younger people. The National Institute on Aging says that an older person who is depressed may appear to feel tired, have trouble sleeping or seem irritable. Depression can also cause confusion or attention problems that can mirror memory impairment.

Social isolation is one major risk factor for depression, and it can take a toll on someone’s physical and mental health. Connecting with other people is considered a fundamental human need that is essential for wellbeing. With support and encouragement from friends, family and peers, the risk of developing feelings of loneliness, anxiety and depression can lower drastically.

Luckily, there are steps you can take to combat the risk of depression. Whether it’s a physical activity, social interaction or mental stimulation–there are many ways someone can improve their overall mental health, no matter what age. Here are a few options:

Stay Connected

The absence of social activity and connections can lead to a range of issues for older adults, according to Bryan James, an epidemiologist at the Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center in Chicago. James followed 1,100 people for over 12 years and found the rate of cognitive decline was 70 percent lower in people who had frequent social engagements.

For most, it can be easy to incorporate social connections into a daily routine. You can become more connected by making plans with family and friends, taking a class, joining a group, volunteering or living in a community like any of Sun Health’s three Life Plan Communities. At each community, Grandview Terrace, La Loma Village and The Colonnade, you’ll find social connections and proactive wellness are ingrained in the culture. Furthermore, each community provides an optimal setting for nurturing friendships and building a thriving social life.

You may be thinking, what if I move into a community where everyone is new to me? That’s okay, too. Most communities, like Sun Health’s Life Plan Communities and innovative Sun Health At Home® program, provide opportunities for recreational activities, groups and lectures where you can meet people and build friendships. Plus, the more you step out of your comfort zone, the more you might want to engage!

Try Something New

Some may feel as if they’re getting enough social interaction, but there are a few questions to consider. Are you making effort to be with family, friends and the community? Are you making purposeful choices to get out of the house? Are you keeping your brain sharp by engaging in conversations, classes or intellectual activities?

If the answer to any of those questions is no, it may be beneficial to evaluate your schedule and see where you can fit more new social activities into your life. Whether you feel comfortable setting aside time each day or only twice a week, increasing your connectedness will not only help keep your mind sharp, but it may ease feelings of loneliness.

Get Active

Walking is first step toward increased mood and overall wellbeing. It sounds simple, but the health impact shouldn’t be underestimated. Whether it is a 30-minute walk or just down to the end of the street and back, dedicating time each day to a leisurely stroll can have significant influence on someone’s life.

In a survey of 1,750 physicians, more than 85 percent reported that they prescribe regular exercise like walking for treating depression and anxiety. In one university research study, over 90 percent of those assigned to an exercise program were no longer considered depressed. It was much more effective than counseling, as half of the patients in the contrasting psychotherapy group ended up returning for additional treatment.

At least 30 minutes of exercise three days per week is most beneficial, but even 10-minutes of walking each time can make a difference. Both lead to gradual improvements over time. You can learn even more about the health benefits of walking here.

So why is walking helpful in treatment and prevention of anxiety, depression and other mood disorders? It provides a level of power and control, as well as measurable changes. Walking and other forms of exercise also release endorphins to lift our sense of wellbeing, and this can be a distraction from stressors. Walking outdoors can have even more benefits.

By now, you may be empowered to make walking part of your daily routine, but habits can be hard to start and maintain. To help you get started, consider some of these ideas:

  • Keep your walking shoes by the front door.
  • Ask family and friends to hold you accountable.
  • Join a walking group or make plans with a friend or neighbor.
  • Schedule reminders on your phone or calendar.
  • Find healthy incentives to keep motivated.

No matter how you choose to walk, where and how long, it’s a positive habit to build. Best of all, it requires no equipment or gym membership. By adding walks into your lifestyle, you will take steps toward combatting loneliness and risks of depression.

Fitness Classes and Wellness Opportunities

Many retirement communities offer opportunities to strengthen your physical and mental health. At Sun Health Communities, you can find a variety of fitness and wellness programs based on your individual needs.

Once you decide what’s right for you, you can attend a healthy living class, such as the ones offered through Sun Health Communities or Sun Health Wellness, which will help you work on your general fitness. Classes include tai chi, strength training and many others. Best of all — the group-based atmosphere will allow you to build connections and friendships among the other class-goers!

Another way to keep your health sharp is by eating nutritious food. Mindful eating is connected to both your physical and mental health, and it can have a dramatic impact on your wellbeing. Luckily, Sun Health Communities offer restaurants at each of their community locations, with healthy options labeled on the menu to ensure you are on the right track.

The options for improving your wellbeing are endless. You can’t go wrong with making a positive change in your life; whether it’s a daily walk, attending a class or increasing your healthy eating habits. All of these activities can help your physical and mental health, as well as prevent feelings of loneliness.

Live happy and healthy in your retirement

A fulfilling social life is just one aspect of a successful retirement. Sun Health Communities partners with Masterpiece Living®, a nationally-recognized program that helps support healthy aging according to four key factors that influence quality of life: physical, social, intellectual and spiritual. With the principles of Masterpiece Living in mind, we strive to make our communities places where each and every resident feels empowered to live their best possible life.

The best part is, you don’t need to move in to enjoy the benefits of Masterpiece Living® and Life Plan Communities. Sun Health At Home, Arizona’s first continuing care at home program, brings the support of a personal Wellness Coordinator along with the amenities of traditional retirement living right to your door.

Whether aging in place or making the move, we’re committed to helping you plan the best possible retirement. Contact Sun Health Communities to learn more.