Active Adults Enjoy Health Benefits of Connections

We may feel younger and healthier than any Active Adult generation before us, but we still need to safeguard our health and wellness, and one of the best ways to do that is by connecting with others.

According to findings revealed through a study about social isolation, detrimental health effects that often occur as we age include increased falling, increased risk for dementia, increased risk for re-hospitalization (after a treatment or procedure), and even increased risk of mortality overall.

Some of the ways in which Active Adults may avert social isolation include having one’s hearing tested (and purchasing hearing aids, if necessary), dining with others on a regular basis, adopting a pet, taking classes for personal enrichment, and utilizing technology – including social media – to maintain relationships with friends and relatives who live far away.

Hearing Test

When someone with a hearing disability gets their issue addressed, they often are surprised to discover how much they have been “missing” in terms of conversations, enjoyment of music, and more. Social connections are easier to form (or rekindle) when an Active Adult feels confident participating in the conversation!

Dining With Friends

“Empty Nesters” often find meals to be one of the most difficult adjustments to make when their children move out, or when the adults “right-size” their home. Creating a “supper club” within the community, in which participants dine at one another’s homes, or choose a restaurant at which to meet, provides not only exciting alternatives to traditional meals, but also encourages connection with interesting people.

Adopting A Pet

If you need more exercise, adopt a dog. If you crave companionship, adopt a dog. If you want to meet new people, adopt a dog! While cats and other pets also offer the opportunity to care for a living creature, dogs are a great way to spend more time outdoors, and to meet your neighbors. In case you were wondering, “May I pet your dog” ranks up close to the top of new-friendship conversation starters.

Taking Classes

Kennesaw State University offers a wide variety of classes for personal enrichment through their Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI). Available to individuals ages 50+, OLLI courses include creative writing, mah-jongg and Bridge, art, dance, photography, jewelry-making, computer courses, and more. In addition to learning something new, you’ll meet new people who share similar life-stage experiences and have similar interests.

Technology

Investing in a tablet, laptop, or desktop computer, and learning how to use social media programs such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, as well as email and personal chat programs, helps individuals maintain connections with friends and loved ones all over the globe.

At Windsong, fostering connections is one of the many features that are “built in” to our homes and communities. With wide, inviting sidewalks, dog-friendly courtyards, space for a computer or craft room, and proximity to dining, entertainment, and the local university, the opportunities to connect with folks with whom you share an interest are endless!

Welcome to Windsong – Where Life’s A Breeze!