Good Times Never Get old: Why Companionship is Crucial During Our Golden Years
If these last few years taught us anything, it’s that staying connected to our friends, family, and communities is a vital part of our lives. It is time to move past the many months of being stuck at home, forced to see family and friends from a distance, and start to see companions safely again. While socializing is extremely important for everyone, it is often neglected in the aging community. For many aging adults, maintaining our independence is a top priority but that should not mean living in isolation. By finding opportunities for companionship, we can promote better mental health, better physical health, create new routines, and really, just make life better during our golden years.
What are the dangers of social isolation later in life?
People are inherently social, which is why regular human contact is so important for our health and well-being. Unfortunately, as we age, many of the activities we once partook in start to fizzle out and the risk of social isolation becomes a more prominent issue. From leaving the workforce to falling behind in hobbies and sports due to decreased mobility, slipping into social isolation can be a common occurrence as we age. The transition from a busy work life towards retirement can be difficult for many, particularly veterans who spent years serving their country and were surrounded by a community that gave them purpose.
Sadly, studies have found that 43% of older adults regularly experience loneliness. More than an unpleasant feeling, loneliness can have serious consequences on our health and wellness including issues leading to hypertension, coronary artery disease, cardiac failure, and more. In a study conducted by the CDC, loneliness and social isolation were associated with a 50% increased risk of dementia, a 29% increased risk of heart disease, and a 32% increased risk of stroke. These risks may rival those of smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity, especially in older adults.
How does social connection help?
Social contact with family, friends and those in our community can have profound effects on depression and anxiety. As we all now know, our mental well-being is directly tied to our bodies. By stimulating the brain with feelings of connection, conversation, and laughter, we decrease feelings of stress. Maintaining stress is vital for decreasing the hormone cortisol in the body, helping to regulate blood pressure and glucose for a healthier mind and body.
Social stimulation also helps cognitive function. By simply talking with others, we keep the brain active and sharpen cognitive skills. Regular conversations also help maintain memory which is why it’s important to promote social engagement among older adults before cognitive decline as well as throughout the stages of dementia. Studies show that activities combining social engagement with cognitive function may provide the best protection against Alzheimer’s.
How to best engage with each other as we age?
Strolls Around the Neighborhood
As we age, we may find it difficult to feel included in activities that we worry are physically challenging. However, these activities are exactly what keep people feeling connected to their community and offer movement to keep their bodies strong. Going for walks around your neighborhood is a simple way to incorporate social exercise into your life. Not only is it a form of gentle exercise that helps with heart health and joint pain, but it’s also an all-natural mood-booster that helps with mental health. Studies also show that walks in nature are particularly effective for relieving stress and anxiety, offering a multitude of health benefits and beauty to everyday life.
Sports & Friendly Competition
For those looking to bring their heart rate up a bit, taking part in their favorite sports such as tennis or golf is another way to bring movement back while having fun outdoors. Many adults remain active well into their golden years by enjoying sports, however may have trouble finding partners to play with. Taking part in sports is another healthy way to socialize with the people in your life, and you may even learn a thing or two
Fun & Games
If mobility is an issue, there are several activities you can do at home or in your neighborhood. From board games to cards, games are a great way to get people together and start socializing. Get some snacks together and enjoy some friendly competition while sharing a laugh with those who matter most to you.
Classic Movie Night
For those who love the silver screen, a walk down memory lane with classic movies is a must. Explore titles like Gone with the Wind or Rebel Without a Cause for a look back in time. Discuss your favorite films and Hollywood stars by watching classic programming like The Dick Cavett Show or The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. Enjoy a time before reality had anything to do with television and the only family to keep up with was The Brady Bunch.
Music & Harmony
Nothing brings people together quite like the power of music. Dust off the old 8-string and enjoy serenading one another with some of your favourite tunes. If your finger-picking skills aren’t quite what they used to be, playing some classic records is another way to connect through the generations. We promise you will be tapping your feet together in no time.
There’s no Expiration Date on Friendship
For millions of older adults living alone, living a socially active life can be an uphill battle. Additionally, location can be a huge obstacle to forming meaningful connections and staying active. Peggy is 83 years young, and like many of us, felt extremely isolated throughout the pandemic:
“I enjoy conversations, and it is good for me to stay connected with people. I am craving human contact, and it has been very scarce these last two years. I have not seen a movie, in a theater, in over two years. Such a shame.” – Peggy
Find connections at your fingertips with Tuktu: an app designed to help you stay socially active, provide you with convenient services, and so much more.
Tuktu is here to connect aging adults like Peggy with trustworthy companions who live locally and love what they do. Friendly and reliable, Tuktus help older adults make the most of their day and facilitate living a fruitful life safely. Choose which activities you wish to embark on based on your comfort level. Whether it’s cooking together, getting some exercise, or simply enjoying a chat, participants can enjoy connecting with people in the community on their own terms, there is so much to choose from with Tuktu. It is time we all start connecting again. Book a Tuktu and share a good laugh anytime, anywhere
