There are many things that seniors can do to ensure that they age well. Regular exercise, leading an active lifestyle, having a healthy diet, and quitting smoking are some of these things. Nonetheless, many seniors do not know that taking part in activities that they enjoy can also support healthy senior living. As we get old and weak, we tend to spend more and more time at home alone. This isolation can have a destructive effect on the health of seniors and may result in depression and other mental health issues.
If you are a senior person and find yourself spending much time alone, you may add a volunteer or social activity to your daily routine. Read along to know the importance of having an active lifestyle in senior care.
Benefits Of An Active Lifestyle For Seniors
Engaging yourself in productive social activities that you enjoy can help ensure your well-being. As per many studies seniors with an active lifestyle:
- Are not much likely to develop some health conditions: Taking part in social activities and hobbies can help reduce the risk of developing some health conditions like dementia.
- Have an increased lifespan: As per the results of a study, seniors who reported taking part in social activities like playing games, traveling, or working in social groups and productive activities lived longer when compared to others who did not. Further studies are going on to establish this connection.
- Are happier and less depressed: Many studies report that seniors who take part in meaningful activities are happier and healthier. Experts in senior care believe that taking part in meaningful activities can have long-term benefits for seniors and can help reduce the risk of developing disability, and memory issues.
- May improve their cognitive capabilities: Many studies are being conducted that explore how taking part in creative arts can help people age well. For instance, a study has shown that memory comprehension, problem-solving skills, and creativity improved in seniors after an intensive acting course that lasted for four weeks. Other studies are also shedding light on the ways creative activities like dance or music can help seniors.
- Will be better prepared to cope with loss: volunteering can help seniors cope with the depression and stress from the death of their life partner or other loved ones. Among elderly adults who experienced a loss, those who participated in volunteer activities reported being more positive about their capabilities. They tend to be more self-sufficient.