Research shows that there are many mental and physical benefits of socialization. In a Rush University Medical Center study involving 1,138 senior citizens, the benefits to being social were clear. There are six clear reasons why socialization is important for both you and your mom.
Battles Depression and Loneliness
Socializing with friends, family members, and acquaintances helps with mental health. It’s believed this is due to having an uplifted mood. By improving your mood, you can help battle depression and loneliness.
Boosts Self-Esteem and Confidence Levels
People who actively go out with friends often have higher levels of self-esteem. They also tend to be more confident. Being active with others tends to help you fight off the shyness that often goes hand in hand with low self-esteem.
Improves Health
Being around people aids your immune system. With a stronger immune system, your body fights off viruses like colds more effectively.
Offers Opportunity for Quality Time Together
When you are helping to provide some care for your aging parent, it can be hard to enjoy quality time together. Life seems to be a rush of getting to and from appointments, fixing things in the house, or cooking meals. Skip this and take your mom out for lunch, a picnic at the beach, or window shopping. It will benefit you both.
Prevents Boredom
Boredom is a problem with aging adults. If your mom can’t drive and lives in a more rural area, it’s very likely that she gets bored. Boredom is easily battled by making sure there are opportunities for socialization.
Reduces Risk of Dementia
According to Psychology Today, socialization aids in brain health. People with a lot of friends do better on cognitive tests. By having a healthier brain, the risk of dementia decreases. The Rush University Medical Center offered proof. During their five-year study, the participants with the highest loss of cognitive impairment were the participants who did not participate in many social activities.
If you find it hard to get out because you’re constantly caring for your mom, hire an elder care specialist. You need the respite to be with your children, significant other, or friends. Make sure your mom has plenty of opportunities to get out too. You can make this easy to arranging frequent visits from an elder care service that offers transportation for recreation and errands.
Sources:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/living-mild-cognitive-impairment/201606/the-health-benefits-socializing
https://health.usnews.com/health-news/family-health/brain-and-behavior/articles/2011/05/04/socializing-may-keep-elderly-minds-sharp
If you or an aging loved one are considering elder care in Omaha, NE, please contact the caring staff at Seniors Helping Seniors® Greater Omaha at (402) 215-0308 today.