Senior companionship is known to result in more health benefits than just simply good spirits. Our social health contributes to our overall physical well being just as much as our fruits and vegetables.
“Will I be able to make new friends?” The question most of us have asked ourselves in our lives – but primarily as children entering a new grade or class. Most seniors have a harder time making new friends as they age, but some just need extra opportunities. Senior living communities are a great place to meet new faces on the daily, the second they step out their door.
We’ll highlight some of the top ways that companionship is backed by research and proven to improve senior health.
Decreased risk of memory loss and cognitive decline
Socialization increases brain function, which in turn works to fight against memory loss. Playing a board game or being a member of a book club works to not only boost the brain, but brings the opportunity to learn new things and prevent loneliness in the first place.
Seniors and those aging often have extra time to devote to personal interests that got pushed ahead in the hustle and bustle of working and raising a family. Getting involved with a new hobby is a great place to start.
Physical Fitness
The simplicity of a senior just getting up and moving from one room to another is a small action that has enough momentum to maintain a level of mobility. Building up bone density, muscle mass, and overall strength is done by even just getting up to meet friends and family.
If they happen to meet someone involved in activities such as tai chi or yoga, they could get hooked on a new active hobby that they never may have otherwise. At The Kensington, we offer a long list of group activities such as these, and plenty of fitness classes and rehab services that help seniors safely exercise and retain strength.
Better Nutrition
A friendship can involve enjoying meals together. In a community like ours, we have a vibrant and flavorful dining menu that not only entices the taste buds, but helps contribute to the nutrition your loved one needs. By simply sitting next to someone new at breakfast, they can start the day hearing a lifetime of stories and sharing a connection with another individual, who could use the company just as much as they do.
Sharing a meal can bring about a conversation of their favorite recipes – or their favorite memories associated with them. From there, they can share similar fondness for pies and foods that connect with family tradition.
Mental Wellness
Depression is common in seniors, but when they feel like they are not alone, the feeling of isolation is kept at bay. Striking a conversation about anything from politics, to favorite books, to how they are doing is what keeps them engaged and feeling like they are still a part of a social playground.
Being heard, and giving ears to listen is all it takes to make a senior feel more supported. When you can’t visit your loved one as often as you’d like, nothing feels better than being rest assured that they are making new connections and meaningful friendships to look out for them when you’re not able to be there.
The best medicine is proven to be laughter. By having another person to strike humor with, they could quite literally “warm” their heart. Increased blood flow is a result of laughter, which in turn helps with cardiovascular health. The release of endorphins also reduces stress and pain.
A Place for Friends and Family – Old and New
At The Kensington, we have a healthy respect for independence and privacy, but senior companionship is an integral part of the lifestyle. It’s good for the heart, mind, body, and most importantly – the spirit.
We hold and cherish a deep promise to love and care for your family, as we do our very own. Residents are encouraged to join group activities and venture out to meet their neighbors. Our beautiful space is full of opportunities to meet a new face, and share a new companionship.
Old friends and new can blend and share quality time, while our expert staff works to provide your loved one with the care at all levels. Our two memory care neighborhoods have a high staff-to-resident ratio and aims to bring enjoyment and comfort to each day. We value each and every one of our resident’s needs and work with their strengths. Let The Kensington be your partners in memory care or assisted living, and give us a call today to learn more!
Further Reading:
Memory loss is life changing for all involved. At The Kensington, we provide a state-of-the-art memory care program, a higher staff-to-resident ratio than industry standards, and more advanced care services. Our promise is to love and care for your family as we do our own.
For additional resources regarding your loved one’s condition, please read on about our Memory Care, Alzheimer’s Care and Dementia Care.