A Close-Knit, Supportive Environment
The National Institute on Aging identifies a strong correlation between social interaction and the health and well-being of seniors. Seniors with strong social support systems in place are generally known to experience reduced stress, lowered anxiety and depression as well as decreased risk for certain physical health concerns. Socialization enhances brain health and while the exact mechanism may not be wholly understood, individuals with a strong social support system tend to retain more memories than their more isolated peers.
Engaging with other people in social situations seems to help patients with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia and may even slow the progress of these conditions. Some promising research found that cognitive abilities declined 70 percent slower in individuals with frequent social connections than those with little social contact.
Feeling lonely or isolated can have a negative physical and emotional impact on older adults. Chronically lonely seniors often have elevated systolic blood pressure and are at a greater risk for anxiety and depression. For those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, socialization, when provided in a safe, structured manner, can make a world of difference in their quality of life. At The Crossings, we incorporate daily socialization through companionship, conversation and purposeful programming through our holistic Masterful Moments® lifestyle initiative as well as other therapeutic techniques. By doing so, your loved one has the opportunity to stay as connected and healthy as possible in a supportive, family-like setting.