Many of us know that isolation and loneliness can negatively affect physical and emotional health, but socializing may seem daunting.
How should you begin?
Start small, if necessary.
Even having coffee with another person can positively impact your physical, emotional and spiritual health.
You can also use technology to stay connected with family and friends. An iPad or iPhone will allow for meaningful virtual visits. You can also attend online health, wellness and educational classes that provide cognitive stimulation.
Staying social = better health
As we age, it’s important to participate in meaningful and purposeful activities.
Studies show that staying isolated can lead to a higher risk of heart disease, cognitive decline, anxiety and depression.
On the positive side, staying social through exercise classes, learning sessions and group activities has many benefits. When a person spends time with others in these ways, they will experience:
- Increased strength and flexibility
- Improved cognition and physical ability
- Enhanced well-being marked by reduced anxiety and depression
- Improved self-confidence
- Lower stress levels
- Better quality sleep
- Increased energy levels
- Lower blood pressure
How to stay social
To find meaning in your day and enhance your social connections, explore various activities to find ones that match your interests.
- Join a coffee group or book club
- Stay in touch with family and friends and visit them regularly
- Volunteer
- Take an educational class
- Join a fitness center
- Schedule regular time with your kids and grandkids
- Make phone calls or send emails and texts
While doing these activities, don’t forget your physical well-being. Social interaction goes hand in hand with a health-minded lifestyle:
- Eat a nutritious diet
- Engage in physical activity
- Get plenty of sleep
People need people. By staying active with one another, we benefit from improved health.
Find more information on health and well-being at good-sam.com/resources.
