The Importance of Community for a Senior’s Mental Health and Wellbeing

Human connection goes beyond being an added benefit – it plays a vital role in shaping our lives. These social bonds become increasingly important as we age, but they can be more difficult to maintain. 

The good news is that everything from a close-knit group of loved ones to new acquaintances can help enhance a senior’s golden years. Let’s break down the importance of encouraging a sense of community and how the power of social connection can have a profound impact on seniors’ mental health and wellbeing.

Understanding Senior Isolation: The Silent Challenge

The reality of senior isolation is more prevalent than many seniors and loved ones realize. The American Medical Association reports that 37% of older adults experience loneliness and nearly as many feel socially isolated – and those were only the ones who openly realized it. It is also common for seniors to not acknowledge loneliness because they’ve grown used to being less social, don’t want to burden others, or don’t want to admit it out of a sense of pride.

Seniors are particularly prone to loneliness and isolation for several reasons. These feelings often emerge quietly as life circumstances change. Retirement leads to fewer daily interactions, physical changes make it harder to go out in public or visit loved ones, and the loss of a spouse or long-time friends can leave a significant void. 

Regardless of the reasons, research shows that the lack of social connection has a notable impact on seniors’ wellbeing. According to the National Library of Medicine, isolation and loneliness negatively impacts seniors’ health in several ways, including:

• A significantly increased risk of premature mortality from all causes.
• Roughly 50% greater chance of developing dementia.
• 32% increased risk of stroke.
• 29% increased risk of coronary heart disease.
• 68% increased risk of hospitalization, 57% increased risk of emergency visits, and 400% increased risk of death for heart failure patients.

Different Ways that Community Supports Seniors’ Wellbeing

Community is about more than just having people around – it’s about creating meaningful connections that enrich seniors’ lives. An active social community can help seniors stay engaged and improve their wellbeing in a wide variety of ways:

• Peer relationships: Developing a community of connections allows seniors to share experiences with others and learn from them, whether they join a senior living community with fellow older adults or spend time with younger generations who can provide a fresh perspective.
• Sense of belonging: Social connections can give seniors a sense of purpose that may not be there if they feel isolated. Regular interactions can help seniors feel like they belong and have more reason to thrive. 
• Emotional support: It’s good to know that you have people that you can turn to. Communities provide emotional support, advice, and companionship when needed.
• Ongoing help: Getting older can make it difficult for seniors to handle various daily tasks. Having people around to help out with chores or other needs can make daily life a little easier for seniors.
• A more active lifestyle: A community can encourage seniors to live a more active lifestyle. Anything from adventures with loved ones to having visitors over can help encourage more physical activity and a less sedentary lifestyle.
• Ongoing education: You can never get too old to learn something new. Having different people around can help seniors make new discoveries every day and keep stimulating their brain.
• Encouraging hobbies and activities: Having an active community can help seniors do things they enjoy and build new bonds. From book clubs to exercise classes, shared interests create natural bonds and ongoing engagement.

Practical Ways for Seniors to Build a Social Community

Finding and building a community doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are practical steps that can make a significant difference:

• Schedule regular times to keep in touch with loved ones. Even something as small as a daily call or a few texts between family, friends, and neighbors can help seniors feel connected.
• Explore local resources. Attending local events and public programs is a great way to stay active and meet new people.
• Join a group or class. Group exercise classes, hobbyist groups, and other social gatherings can keep seniors engaged and help them find new outlets to keep them engaged.
• Embrace technology. Digital tools like smartphones and video calling can give seniors more access to their loved ones, even if they live far away.
• Consider joining a senior living community. Finding the right senior living community can help seniors be in close proximity with their peers and help them build new friendships.

Trying to find the right place to build a strong community and live an ideal lifestyle? National Church Residences has more than 300 housing communities in 25 states to help seniors enjoy an active, fulfilling retirement. Find a community that’s close to you or give us a call at 844-465-6063 to talk to one of our friendly staff members today.

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