The Importance of Social Connections in Senior Wellness

Social connectedness refers to the level and quality of contact we have with other people. As we age, we become less socially connected with friends and family for varying reasons. Of course, what we don’t realize is just how harmful to our overall health that losing these connections can be — especially as we age.

Research shows that older adults are at an increased risk for experiencing social isolation. This is primarily because they’re more likely to live alone. They’re also more likely to develop chronic illnesses that impact their mobility and their ability to engage in social events and activities. They may lose close friends and family members for the same reasons.

Below, we’ll explore the importance of social connections for senior wellness and look into what you can do to ensure you or the older loved one in your life is socially fulfilled and happy.

How Social Connectedness Improves Seniors’ Quality of Life

According to in-depth research on aging and health published by the World Health Organization (WHO), strong social connections play a prominent role in ensuring the successful aging of older adults. Successful aging, according to health experts, is officially defined as the process of growing older while maintaining one’s physical health, cognitive abilities, and strong social relationships. Remaining socially connected contributes to successful aging by promoting the following health benefits:

Disease prevention
Lower rates of depression and anxiety
A stronger immune system
Improved cognitive function

Ultimately, research across the board shows that strong social connections allow individuals to remain physically active and healthy while improving their mental health and overall wellness. The result is more fulfillment and contentment, which contribute to longevity.

Why Social Connections Are Essential for Seniors’ Mental Health

Our overall well-being depends on not just a healthy lifestyle but also on how connected we feel to others. This is especially true for senior populations. A 2018 AARP survey concluded that aging adults diagnosed with anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders also had the highest rates of loneliness.

Other research has found that roughly one-fourth of adults age 65 and older are socially isolated. Additionally, the loneliness that comes from being socially isolated is associated with several health risks, which include:

An increased risk of premature death
A 50% increased risk of dementia
A 29% increased risk of heart disease and a 32% increased risk of stroke
Higher rates of depression and anxiety
A 68% increased risk of hospitalization, a 57% increased risk of emergency department visits, and four times the increased risk of premature death among individuals with heart failure

Circumstances That Affect Seniors’ Social Connectedness

Life transitions are the primary factor that impacts the quality of seniors’ lives because these changes have the potential to shift social and community networks. For example, close friends and family members may move away, which can negatively impact an individual’s feelings of social connectedness.

Below are some of the circumstances that can affect a seniors’ level of social connectedness and, in turn, their overall health:

Changes in physical health, such as those that can affect mobility and the ability to get around
Changes in work status and income, including retirement
Changes in living arrangements, such as going from independent living to assisted living or downsizing from the primary home into a small apartment
The loss of family and friends, especially a spouse, sibling, or close friend
Changes in transportation, such as when driving independently is no longer an option, and there are few options regarding public transportation

Many of these changes are inevitable for aging adults. However, there are plenty of changes associated with positive social influences, such as becoming a grandparent or moving closer to family.

Preventing Loneliness in Aging Adults

As an older adult or a family member of an aging adult, it’s important to actively seek out ways to prevent social connections from disappearing. Fortunately, there are plenty of proactive steps you can take to prevent loneliness and isolation, including:

Signing up for community activities. This could mean taking fitness classes at the local YMCA, spending time at a community center, or even volunteering at a local place of worship or other organization.
Becoming familiar with technology. When it’s not possible to see friends or family face to face, we can rely on technology to stay in touch. This includes engaging in video chats with loved ones, communicating through social media, and emailing photos and other news.
Take a class. There’s always something new to learn or try, and keeping an active mind is an excellent way to maintain cognitive function. Learning new skills, whether they be painting, cooking, or learning a new language, is also a great way to boost confidence. Plus, being in a group learning environment can encourage new friendships to form.
Consider new living arrangements. Sometimes, moving to a retirement community or an independent living community with the same age population is the ticket to making new social connections and beating loneliness. These communities often offer amenities that are specific to aging adults, which include social events, fitness classes, transportation, and much more.

Maintaining social connections is crucial for seniors’ overall health and wellness. While we may lose connections as we age, it’s beneficial to know that new ones can be created just as easily. The key is making the effort to seek out and maintain these connections — and for family and friends to do the same.