Seniors who experience hearing loss, or who live alone, can feel a great deal of frustration if they cannot socialise with friends or family. This is why finding a residence where they can mingle with other seniors, as well as have access to the Internet, is of help to seniors. When they have this type of latitude, they can lead a healthier life.
How Socialisation Enhances Wellbeing
In fact, studies show that socialisation and staying connected improves mental functioning by 75%. Staying socially connected also keeps the memory sharp. If a senior is hard of hearing, access to social media makes it possible for him or her to still interact with other people. As a result, an older person enjoys a stronger level of satisfaction. This type of feeling also encourage a senior to exercise.
According to reports, multiple studies have proven how socialising impacts thinking. This type of communication can range from playing chess with a friend to simply talking with a relative about a favourite movie. Researchers found that performing in regular social interaction enables seniors to perform better intellectually and cognitively.
Therefore, social interaction, regardless of the form, exercises the mind. Just as lifting weights strengthens the muscles and running improves the blood flow, socialising improves a person’s thinking and moods. This is why social activities and Internet access are featured at certain senior communities. Retirement operators, like the one featured at www.retireaustralia.com.au, offer both Internet connectivity and a regular schedule of activities.
A Great Level of Satisfaction
Indeed, research continues to back the claims on how socialisation, and staying connected, offsets the aging process. If seniors regularly take part in social activities, they experience a greater level of personal satisfaction, and suffer less from depression.
Besides living in a community that encourages participation in activities, seniors can also find ways to stay in contact by e-mail or through social media. They can also utilise Skype or similar media to stay in close contact with family and friends. Seniors who have problems with hearing have access to a number of new and innovative hearing devices as well.
In fact, it is now possible to programme hearing aids so they are connected with the Internet. For instance a gentle ping inside a hearing device notifies the user when a doorbell rings. The aid can also send a text message to a relative or health care provider when the battery is running low. So, technology is making it possible for seniors to socialise, and stay connected at the same time.
By living in a retirement facility, that emphasises activities and positive interactions, a senior can enjoy his or her golden years more. Today’s residences make it possible for older people to broaden their reach through community engagement as well as technology.
Whether you are a senior yourself or are seeking a residence that offers senior care and activities, socialisation is the key to maintaining an older person’s mental and physical health. When seniors are able to communicate and socialise regularly, they can also make strides or improvements in other key areas.
