We’ve all had the experience of having a friend or loved one boost our spirits. Connecting with others is something that is hardwired into our DNA. According to Matthew Lieberman, author of the book Social: Why Our Brains Are Wired to Connect, “Being socially connected is our brain’s lifelong passion. It’s been baked into our operating system for tens of millions of years.”
Socialization is an important element for healthy aging. Researchers at the University of Chicago found that loneliness increases a person’s chances of premature death by 14 percent, twice the risk factor of obesity.
In another study of nearly 1500 retirees, researchers discovered that those with the most active social lives were 22 percent less likely to die within 10 years compared to those who had fewer social contacts. Socializing may also be good for the mind. A study from the Rush University Memory and Aging Project concluded that a higher level of social engagement in old age is associated with better cognitive function. A study from the Harvard School of Public Health found that people who were socially active in their 50s and 60s had slower rates of memory decline compared to those who were more isolated.
Of course, socializing can become more of a challenge as we grow older. Physical limitations, illness, and having friends pass away can all erode our social network. Here’s a few suggestions to ensure you remain socially active even as you age:
Put socialization at the top of your “to do” list
Just as with any health routine – whether it be an exercise program or a healthful diet – socializing is something you need to plan for, especially if you’re prone to isolation. So, call up a friend and invite them out for coffee or a movie. When you see a neighbor, invite them to stop over for dinner or dessert.
Volunteer
Volunteering is a great way to meet new people who share a cause you believe in. Additionally, it gives people a sense of purpose, which is also good for your health. A study of over 9,000 Britons who averaged 65 years of age suggested that a sense of purpose could extend your life by as much as two years. Visit volunteer.gov to look for opportunities in your area.
Make friends online
If getting out of the house is difficult, you can still connect with others online. A University of Exeter study concluded that adults aged 60 to 95 who received computer equipment and training “had heightened feelings of self-competence, engaged more in social activity, had a stronger sense of personal identity, and showed improved cognitive capacity.”
Get a pet
Connection doesn’t have to be human-to-human to provide health benefits. A study published in Aging & Mental Health showed that older adults who were pet owners were 36 percent less likely than non-pet owners to describe feelings of loneliness. Walking a dog is also great exercise and provides even more opportunities for socialization – people are drawn to animals and you may be surprised how much attention your pet will bring.
