The Social Effects of Assisted Living: More Than Just Care

The word is out: being around friends and positive people is good for a person’s mental, emotional, and physical health, especially for those over 55. It’s great news for anyone considering a move to senior living. At Carriage Crossing, we believe the beneficial social effects of assisted living are tremendous, and we want to share them with you!

Why is socialization important for healthy aging?

Prolonged social isolation can lead to an almost 30% increase in the risk of premature death through health conditions including diabetes, heart attacks, insomnia and dementia. In fact, in terms of impacts on health and wellbeing, loneliness has been compared to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

The problem is, it seems to be more common than ever. The pandemic is partly to blame. But ever since, as more and more people gained access to live streaming of activities and religious services, games, video conference calls, and even cell phones, they are spending more time alone. And it’s more than being alone; it’s feeling isolated and lonely.

Not only do loneliness and isolation in seniors and other age groups pose serious hazards to emotional, mental and physical health, they have been declared an epidemic by the US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, who has released a Surgeon General Advisory calling attention to this public health crisis.

Beneficial social effects of assisted living and what it can mean for seniors

According to Mayo Clinic, adults with strong social connections have reduced risk of health problems such as high blood pressure, depression, heart disease, stroke, and an unhealthy body mass index.

And that’s just for starters!

Related: The Health Benefits of Social Connections in Senior Living

Here are some other benefits of socializing in assisted living:

• It reduces stress. When you’re interacting with someone you enjoy, you tend to feel good all over. That’s partly due to the release of hormones that take away anxiety and replace it with confidence and self-assurance. We like the “way we feel” around a special friend and tend to repeat that interaction as often as possible.
• It gives you a sense of purpose. Here come those “feel good” hormones again. When you look forward to seeing someone, you get a rush…that rush is usually powered by the healthy hormones that lift your mood and put a hop in your step. In fact, research has shown that feeling a sense of purpose and belonging can actually help improve balance and control and increase your walking gait.
• It teaches you how to cope. Why is socialization important? Life has its challenges, and aging is a great example. Seems there’s always something new to address, such as thinning hair or a new wrinkle. When you are around peers who are sharing your journey, it’s much easier to meet these challenges head on with a smile and a good attitude, which helps stave off depression and anxiety. Finding positive ways to cope is one of the most significant social effects of senior living.
• It gets you up and going. Today’s assisted living offers multiple avenues for staying active and avoiding the psychological effects of living alone. There’s always an activity, event, or outing calling you to participate. It might be a Tai chi class. Walking club. Outing to a museum. Learning to paint.

Whatever the opportunity to be around others, you are getting exercise, stretching your muscles, benefitting your heart and lungs, sending oxygen to your brain, and working on your balance and strength. All of these forms of movement serve to enhance your overall well-being and help you avoid the psychological effects of living alone.

Why assisted living such a good antidote for psychological effects of living alone

This is a lifestyle that is designed to bring people together—residents, their families, and their friends—and offer year-round opportunities for sharing, supporting, uplifting, and boosting each other. For example:

• Activities and events bring residents, family and friends together to celebrate holidays, birthdays, anniversaries, and special occasions
• Pleasant dining experiences in lovely venues are filled with delicious food and lively conversation
• Good friends are right next door so there’s always someone close by for companionship
• Group wellness and exercise classes and programs make it easier to stay motivated and inspired to follow healthy habits
• Exceptional amenities invite residents to gather for entertainment, learning, and more
• Inviting outdoor spaces provide a welcoming ambiance for special occasions, family and visits, moments of meditation

If your parent or loved one is spending too much time on their own, maybe it’s time to talk about the social effects of assisted living. Once they realize just what is waiting for them in this engaging and inspiring lifestyle, they might be very glad you did.

Related: How to Talk to Your Parents About Senior Living: Helpful Tips

Are you looking for more information about our senior living community or seeking a little guidance for you or your loved one? At Carriage Crossing, we are here to help.

Download our free guide, “Exploring Assisted Living at Carriage Crossing” or contact us today.