10 Health Benefits Of Socializing & 10 Ways To Build Community In Your Later Years
Your Next Social Event Is Just What The Doctor Ordered
We all know how important diet and exercise are to a long and happy life, but staying engaged socially may be just as crucial. Social interaction has been linked to lower stress and depression, and a reduced risk of dementia and chronic illness. However, maintaining connections and forming new ones in your later years can be challenging. Here are 10 health benefits of socializing and 10 ways to cultivate community in your twilight years.
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1. Reduces Stress
Social interaction has been shown to decrease stress by releasing beneficial hormones that combat it. It helps the nervous system move away from "fight or flight" and return to a balanced state.
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2. Lowers Risk Of Dementia
By keeping the mind active and engaged, socializing can lower the risk of dementia. When we socialize, our brains are processing information and formulating a response quickly, which acts as a mental exercise that keeps our minds sharp.
3. Increases Self-Esteem
By creating a sense of belonging and providing a social support network, socializing boosts self-confidence. Having a group of people who encourage helps reinforce a positive self-image.
4. Strengthens The Immune System
Coming into contact with different people exposes your body to different germs, enhancing antiviral immunity. What's more, it reduces inflammation and reduces the body's stress response, which often leads to a weakened immune system.
5. Improves Brain Function
Conversation challenges the brain, stimulating cognitive processes and strengthening connections between neurons. It has been tied to improved memory, focus, and emotional regulation.
6. Increases Lifespan
Social interaction has been tied to an increased lifespan because it lowers the risk of chronic diseases and promotes happiness and well-being. Having a strong social circle also gives meaning and purpose, which encourages you to stay healthy.
7. Improves Heart Health
Socializing is good for the heart because it reduces stress, blood pressure, and inflammation, and boosts the immune system. It's especially beneficial if your social network enjoys being active and encourages you to exercise more.
8. Reduces Symptoms Of Depression
Socialization has definite mood boosting qualities, such as reducing stress, combating loneliness, and releasing endorphins that promote happiness. When you least feel like socializing because you're in a depressive slum,p is often when you need it the most.
9. Enhances Emotional Resilience
No one goes through life without having challenges to deal with. That's why having a good support group is so important. They can provide healthy perspectives and give you the strength to pull through difficult times.
10. Helps In Weight Management
Most of us are more likely to overeat or engage in unhealthy habits when we're alone. Social interaction has been tied to better health behaviors because it provides greater accountability and support.
Now that we've covered some of the most important health benefits of socializing, let's talk about how you can make friends and build community when you're older.
1. Join A Hobby-Based Club
Whether it's a book club or a knitting circle, joining a club based on one of your hobbies is a great way to meet people with similar interests. Having this common ground provides the perfect base for a friendship to blossom naturally and quickly.
2. Take A Class
Taking a class at a senior center or community college is an excellent way to learn a new skill while connecting with others who are also passionate and curious. It's a double-whammy for mental stimulation.
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3. Become A Regular Somewhere
Whether it's a cafe you love, a library, or the theatre, showing up at the same place frequently creates familiarity. Simple interactions with staff and other regulars can grow into fully-fledged friendships.
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4. Volunteer
Volunteering for a cause you care about is a great way to add meaning and purpose to your life. It also allows you to connect with a community of people who share your values.
5. Get Involved In Your Local Spiritual Institution
If you're religious or spiritual, getting involved in your local church, synagogue, mosque, or other spiritual institution will instantly provide you with a warm, welcoming, and tight-knit community. It can also provide the perfect setting for you to dive deeper into your faith.
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6. Look Up Old Lost Friends
With the internet, it's now so easy to look up old friends whom you may have lost track of. Even if you haven't seen them in decades, don't be afraid to reach out with a Facebook message or email. It might just blossom into something special.
7. Engage With Neighbors
Your future bestie might be living right under your nose! Despite most of us living in tight proximity to our neighbors, so many of us are guilty of never attempting to engage with them past a simple wave. Test the friendship waters with your neighbors by bringing over a small gift.
8. Go Online
From friendship apps to online forums and Facebook groups, there are plenty of ways to meet friends online. This is especially useful if you live in a remote location where there are limited opportunities for meeting new people in person
9. Join A Support Group
There's strength in solidarity. If you're struggling and feel isolated, consider joining a support group. They connect you with people who are experiencing similar challenges.
10. Get Involved In Community Events
Local events like farmers' markets or street fairs are natural gathering places. Try to attend whenever you can and make an effort to strike up conversations and socialize with new people.
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