4 Health Benefits of Social Interaction

Healthy Aging | 04/29/19

Why is Social Interaction Important as We Age?

Jean Samson’s initial vision of a senior living community was bleak. She thought a retirement community was a place where people sat around all day with nothing to do. Once she visited Winchester Gardens, though, she realized how wrong that preconceived notion was.

When Jean walked into the community for the first time, she found that Winchester Gardens offered her ample social interaction, independence, and friendship. She always loved staying busy and, once moved in, became a pillar of her community by starting a book club and prayer group and regularly attending concerts, movies and lectures with her neighbors. She quickly learned there’s never a shortage of things to do – or interesting people to do them with! “No one should ever be bored here,” says Jean.

Winchester Gardens is a community that offers multiple opportunities to be as social as you want. Our services and amenities promote the benefits of a social senior lifestyle. Choosing an active continuing care retirement community means choosing a healthier life.

4 Surprising Health Benefits of Social Interaction

Why is social interaction important? The answer may surprise you. Let’s take a look at some of the health benefits of social interaction at Winchester Gardens.

1. Better Physical Health – Your body will thank you for it! Connecting with others may reduce stress and lead to an increase in cardiovascular health and an improved immune system, which can make it easier to fight off sicknesses like the flu. With like-minded individuals around you, you’re also more likely to take part in regular exercise. Our fitness amenities include an indoor heated pool and regular exercise classes for you to enjoy with friends.
2. More Positive Mental Health – Whenever you have a bad day, interacting with others can boost your mood. In fact, consistently taking part in social activities may lead to a reduced risk of depression and anxiety. With our robust activities calendar, there’s always something to do, so take some time to get to know others at our coffee club, or even relax with a glass of wine at the weekly happy hour. Whatever it may be, you’ll feel more connected and at ease after sharing your experience with others.
3. Improved Cognitive Health – Consistent social interactions can help keep you stimulated, mentally sharp and intellectually engaged. Especially when participating in activities like Technology Brain Games and guest lectures. Improvements in these cognitive areas help prevent cognitive decline, including memory loss and forms of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
4. Achieve a Longer Lifespan – Seniors who lead social lives live longer. The National Institute on Aging found that research suggests that, “Social isolation constitutes a major risk factor for morbidity and mortality, especially in older adults.” Social connectivity is almost as beneficial as eating well, not smoking and not drinking too much alcohol.

Stay Active at Winchester Gardens

You’ll find plenty of activities and amenities here that will keep you active and interacting with others. Contact us today and schedule a personal tour. Like Jean, you’ll immediately find social senior opportunities and see the benefits of an energetic community.