By Pam Alberts
We all know the feeling we get when we experience a strong connection with others. Socializing with close and special people adds great richness to our lives. Bonding with others can lift us up in a way that’s hard to put into words. In addition to making us feel good emotionally, various studies have shown other important benefits of having social connections.
Research suggests having strong social ties may lead to a longer and healthier life. The most socially connected seniors report very good or excellent health, fewer colds, lower blood pressure and heart rates, and appear to delay memory problems. Depressive symptoms are also reported less in people who socialize more verses those more isolated. Statistics show that married people have a longer life expectancy.
People often have larger social networks from school or work. As we get older, people tend to move away, get busy with their lives and health issues, and we often experience losses. As an older adult, some people find it more difficult to make connections.
Senior Centers, or Councils On Aging, are designed to increase socialization. This can be an easy way to connect with people in your community, both meeting new people and getting to know others better. With many activities offered including groups, classes, presentation, events, etc., you can socialize with many of the same people on a regular basis who share the same interests.
The Lincoln COA offers opportunities for homebound seniors, or those who find it difficult to get out, to connect with others in a group by phone. It never fails how much people have in common once they just start connecting. For those who haven’t experienced being in a group, they can become quite intimate and special for people. It is not uncommon for groups that have been together for awhile to consider the group a “second family.” Who doesn’t want to be heard, supported, and cared about?
People spend a lot of time planning their financial resources and caring for their physical well-being. With research now behind it, it’s time to plan how you’re going to keep up or increase your social networks for both happiness and health.
Pam Alberts, MSW, LICSW, CEP, MBA is Assistant Director at the Lincoln Council On Aging. She runs two Let’s Connect groups at Bemis Hall – 15 Bedford Road, Lincoln, on Mondays from 10 to 11 a.m. and Wednesday from 2 to 3 p.m. Some people can participate by phone.
