Maintaining healthy social interactions even as you step away from the hustle and bustle of life when you retire is paramount. From helping to curb symptoms of depression to giving you a greater sense of community and belonging that will enhance your quality of life, here are some of the benefits of social interaction, and how independent living communities foster them.
Benefit #1: Social Interaction Makes You Less Prone to Mental Illnesses
Many research studies have shown that social isolation plays a role in mental illnesses like depression and anxiety. On the other hand, having a stable support system from friends and family curtails feelings of loneliness and melancholy.
A study from France showed that those who didn’t maintain friendships but at least established relationships with their neighbors experienced a higher quality of life than those who did not engage in social interaction.
In retirement communities, the ease of interacting with your neighbors is a significant perk, and you’ll be able to enjoy each other’s company by taking part in various activities and events together.
Benefit #2: Socially Engaged Adults Have Better Physical Health
Did you know that your physical health can be improved simply by interacting more with others?
Independent living communities are great places for you to forge close friendships with those your age. Moreover, you’ll be able to motivate each other to adopt a healthier lifestyle through engaging in a series of health and fitness programs together such as working out or attending a yoga class.
Cardiovascular issues are among the physical ailments experienced by older adults commonly. If you have high blood pressure, being more active in building deep connections with others could help your condition, as research has found that social networks help control hypertension.
Benefit #3: Improved Sense of Belonging and Purpose
A sense of love and belonging is part of Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs, a theory that shows what human needs are essential in dictating motivation. This is certainly relevant in your post-retirement years as well, as you embark on new ventures and goals outside of your career.
When you surround yourself with people that align with your way of life, interests, and goals, you’re not only more likely to achieve the lifestyle and targets you’ve set, but a sense of belonging, acceptance, and support will improve your quality of life as well.
In Independent living communities, you’ll be able to meet individuals with similar interests through a variety of activities and programs.
Benefit #4: Surrounding Yourself with Others Promotes Lifelong Learning
Friends can influence and shape you. In particular, meeting others from different walks of life enables you to learn from their experiences and skill sets. This mutual exchange of expertise enables you to continually grow and learn, which will continue to provide you meaning and fulfillment well into your retirement years.
As our friends can shape our habits, such as going for regular physical check-ups or engaging in activities that enhance our well-being, surrounding yourself with relatable and motivational friends is also key as you grow older.
Residing in a community can facilitate beneficial daily interaction between yourself and other residents. Consider joining an independent living community today!
