Everyone knows the benefits of exercise as we age. It improves your mobility, increases your heart rate and overall strength, while also improving your mental health. But did you know engaging with others is just as important to your overall health as you age? Unfortunately, some seniors may find it difficult to maintain relationships with others as a result of friends and relatives moving away, or possibly limited mobility makes it hard to get out and about. As a result, their physical, mental and emotional health may suffer. In other words, social wellness is key to healthy aging. With that said, here are 5 ways that you can stay socially active as you age.
1. Find a hobby
Most seniors have one or more hobbies that they love. Spending time doing something you enjoy and sharing that experience with people you have just met is a wonderful way to form deep connections. Hobbies like gardening, wood carving, fishing and playing competitive games are great to interact with others. So if you don’t have a hobby that forces you to interact with others, it’s time to find one.
2. Exercise
Exercise is the number one way to stay socially active as a senior. It helps you build strength and stamina, while also giving you the energy needed to socialize with others. You can even join a sport team or after school programs for seniors that can help you gain confidence, skills and a team of workout buddies. As an added bonus, exercise is an excellent way to help you be more physically active in your general daily activities as well.
3. Learn to use social media
Many seniors view social media as a waste of time, but it is actually a great way to stay connected with others. The most popular social media platforms nowadays are all about connecting with people. Facebook, Instagram and Twitter are great examples of how you can stay connected with others even when you’re not physically close. Social media is free and accessible, so it makes a great way to build relationships while still maintaining independence. You can use it to connect with people you know, and also meet people who have similar interests to you by joining groups and online communities.
4. Join a volunteer organization
Volunteering is another great way to interact with others and stay socially active as you age. There are many different types of organizations that offer senior volunteers that can help you make new friends and meet new people.
5. Be open to new experiences
It’s not easy to stay social as you age, but it is possible. Make a commitment to be more open and positive about meeting new people and taking on new experiences. You can also make an effort to reach out and make new friends as often as possible, no matter where they are or what they do. No matter your age, it’s important to be open to meeting new people and getting out of your comfort zone!
It’s important that seniors keep in contact with others as they enter their golden years. Social connections are critical for staying healthy and maintaining quality of life, but the challenge of socializing is often what keeps us from doing so in the first place.x
