As we age, normal changes in our bodies and brains can make it more difficult to get out and participate in social activities. But social interaction is important. Participating in different social activities with peers can help your senior mom to live a longer, happier, healthier life.
Maintaining healthy social circles with friends and family is not only good for Mom’s mental state, it’s also good for her health. One study found that having many healthy social relationships was just as beneficial to one’s health as quitting smoking. That same study also concluded that being more socially active could actually extend a person’s lifespan.
People who have strong social relationships have a 50 percent higher chance of living a longer, healthier life than people who have poor or no social relationships. Researchers have found that postmenopausal women who spent one day a week looking after their grandchildren had a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
So encourage your senior mom to participate in group activities. Whether she joins a club at her local senior center, goes to a book club meeting at the local library, or participates in regular family meals and gatherings at home, getting out of the house and participating in social activities will help your senior mom to avoid certain mental health issues like anxiety and depression and age well.
