Maintaining good health is crucial at any age, but staying fit and healthy as an older adult is perhaps the most vital. As you get older, you aren’t as nimble or energetic as you once were, which makes it too easy to fall into a sedentary lifestyle. This lifestyle means you rarely go out or see people, and these two issues can cause significant health problems. A thriving social life could be the answer, and here are four reasons to consider.
It Keeps the Mind Sharp
Experts have found that spending time with others and active social life can help keep the mind sharp. Rather than spend all day inside, even if you prefer to do crosswords or other challenging puzzles, these are no substitute for genuine human interaction.
Spending time with other people can help improve your memory, too. This can prevent common conditions found in old age, such as Alzheimer’s or dementia, allowing you to avoid severe issues. You can spend plenty of time with your current friends, but there’s no reason you can’t expand your social circle and find other friends.
It Gets Them Out the House
The house might be comfortable and familiar, but it can also feel claustrophobic if you spend too long there. A social life gives older adults the chance to get out of the house which isn’t just to go to the supermarket or visit the doctor.
Regular appointments with friends, book clubs, or exercise groups can provide an excellent reason to get out of the house. If you or a older loved one lives near green spaces, you can also make the most of these areas by getting out as often as possible, especially when the weather is nice.
It Prevents Loneliness
Loneliness is a common issue for many older adults, especially if their partner or close friends have passed away. This can also come with depression or anxiety as they struggle to live without the people who have been close to them for so long.
While understandably challenging, a social life within an accepting retirement community can avoid loneliness and isolation. It will give them the chance to meet new people and build new friendships that can make them feel safer and more comfortable.
It Boosts Overall Health
Spending time with others can also help people live longer as it improves a wide range of overall health factors, all of which contribute to a longer and happier life. Older adults who make the effort to get out of the house to catch up with friends and family often feel better and more energized rather than spending the entire day sitting on the sofa.
This is crucial for improving mental and physical well-being and can contribute to a longer life, meaning loved ones can enjoy their company for as long as possible and make the most of every moment.
Sociable
You don’t need to recreate the bustling social life of your youth; you’re far too mature to stay out till all hours nowadays, anyway. Still, getting out of the house regularly, finding opportunities to exercise, and meeting new people can all vastly improve your health and well-being to help you live happier and maybe even longer.
Sophie Okolo, MPH 
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