Engaging socially with other people is important to a person’s health, no matter their age. It is critical to people’s physical and psychological health to make genuine connections with those around them. It’s often called social wellness.
If older adults are engaged in their surroundings and have an active social circle, they often believe that their quality of life is good, and they are often physically healthier.
“Through socialization, we adjust our perceptions, increase our knowledge, acquire new skills, and have fun,” said Susan Bradley-Meyer, Director of Senior Adult Services for the Mayerson JCC. “Interpersonal relationships are often the most important part of a person’s life, and the mental stimulation they provide never gets old.”
“Through socialization, we adjust our perceptions, increase our knowledge, acquire new skills, and have fun”
A person’s social wellness is critical to helping them navigate changes and transitions including retiring, becoming a grandparent, and relying on help from the children who once relied on them. Throughout all these changes, socialization provides older adults a way to learn through watching others navigate their way through these transitions. Social interaction also allows for the sharing, processing, and comparison of perspectives and thoughts on aging.
According to the National Institute on Aging, socialization can help keep seniors from falling into a depression, the likelihood of which increases as people age.
“Studies have shown that socialization among seniors has a positive effect on cognitive abilities—a good sign in the fight against Alzheimer’s and other dementias,” Bradley-Meyer said. “Just as socialization can keep older adults healthy, the lack of it can make a negative impact on their health. Loneliness can creep in, as social networks tend to shrink as people age.”
The Mayerson JCC, an AgeWell Cincinnati provider, offers a number of programs and services for older adults to stay active and social, which fit a wide variety of interests. The following are just a few of those offerings.
Day Trips: Day Trips with the JCC encourage members to learn and socialize together, and provides opportunities to enjoy travel. Trips for older adults have included the Louisville Slugger Museum, Pyramid Hill, a tour of Plum Street Temple, and Keeneland Raceway.
Hot Kosher Lunch: Older adults can enjoy an affordable, hot kosher lunch at the JCC every day, which encourages socialization.
Transportation: The JCC’s transportation services provide independence and access to many programs and activities.
According to the National Institute on Aging, socialization can help keep seniors from falling into a depression, the likelihood of which increases as people age.
Remo HealthRHYTHMS: This exercise class is a fun, evidence-based whole-person strategy that promotes socialization and ensures a healthy non-strenuous workout. It uses drumming as a tool for communication and personal expression.
A Matter of Balance – Managing Concerns about Falls: Many older adults experience concerns about falling and restrict their activities. A Matter of Balance is an award-winning program designed to manage falls and increase activity levels. Participants learn how to set goals for increasing activity and make changes at home to reduce falls.
Exercise Classes: The J offers exercise classes appropriate for older adults with a range of physical abilities.
With one call to AgeWell Cincinnati, older adults will be connected to programs that help them stay active and promote social well-being.