Social engagement is vital for seniors’ health, research has shown. A study from the Harvard School of Public Health found that people over age 65 can add years to their lives by participating in enjoyable social activities — including shopping, gardening and playing games. In fact, researchers found, social activities can lower the risk of mortality as much as physical exercise does.
The importance of social interaction
Social engagement also can help seniors stay mentally sharp, notes the University of Rochester Medical Center. In addition, maintaining personal relationships can help support both emotional and physical health. Being social has a number of benefits for seniors:
- May lower risk for rheumatoid arthritis, some cancers, osteoporosis and cardiovascular problems.
- May reduce the risk of mental health issues, including depression.
- May reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
- May lower blood pressure.
Engagement comes in many forms
Seniors can stay busy, stimulated and “young at heart” with a variety of activities, including:
- Volunteering in the community.
- Pursuing hobbies and taking group classes.
- Joining a senior center for group activities such as games and lectures.
- Scheduling regular visits with children and grandchildren.
- Keeping in touch by phone or by using technology.
Staying social with technology
Seeing family and friends on a regular basis is a great way to keep seniors socially engaged, but it’s not always feasible. Loved ones often have busy schedules, and hundreds or thousands of miles may separate family members.
For the times that it’s not possible to get together in person, IndependaTV™ provides an alternative that’s almost like being there. As a comprehensive solution for seniors, IndependaTV™ includes tools for receiving appointment and medication reminders, along with monitoring health metrics.
IndependaTV™ also ensures that seniors never feel alone by providing a number of features that promote social interaction. Family members can easily check in and keep track of how seniors are doing, and they can send messages and video chat.
Many ways to socialize
For seniors, remaining socially engaged is vital for maintaining a vibrant quality of life. By getting involved in a variety of activities, seeing loved ones in person and enjoying user-friendly technology to stay in touch, seniors can keep their personal connections strong.
