Aging Gracefully: How to Protect Mature Skin

In the tapestry of life, social connections are the vibrant threads that weave together our experiences, joys and challenges. For seniors, these social connections hold even greater significance, serving as a cornerstone for their overall well-being, contributing to a happier, healthier and more fulfilling life. In this blog, we explore the many benefits of senior friendship and shed light on how these connections truly enrich retirement.The Human Need for ConnectionFrom the moment were born, humans thrive on connection. As we age, this need remains steadfast, if not more crucial than ever. Seniors with strong social networks feel connected, valued and supported, benefiting their overall well-being and health.The companionship of friends serves as a powerful buffer against the challenges that can accompany aging. Maintaining close friendships has even been linked to decreased levels of loneliness and depression in seniors. The simple act of sharing stories, laughter and moments of vulnerability creates an emotional support system that helps seniors navigate lifes ups and downs with resilience and positivity.How Senior Living Fosters FriendshipsAt Anthology Senior Living, daily engagement encourages residents to bond with loved ones, build new friendships and explore new passions. Designed around our core philosophy and using our six dimensions of wellness, the Elements Life Enrichment program truly nurtures full mind, body and spirit. Whether participating in a group fitness class, joining other residents for an off-site excursion or playing a poker game, new experiences keep residents energized and encourage them to make the most of every day.Seniors at Anthology of Burlington Creek can enjoy a variety of events and activities. These aim to spark curiosity, promote engagement and bring happiness to their daily lives, keeping seniors connected.How Social Connections Keep Seniors HealthyScientific research underscores the life-changing impact of social interactions on senior health. Spending time with friends, family and peers links to a range of benefits, including:Mental and emotional well-being: Regular social engagement can help combat feelings of depression and loneliness in seniors, leading to a more positive outlook on life.Cognitive health: Engaging in stimulating conversations, participating in group activities and sharing experiences can help maintain cognitive function and even reduce the risk of cognitive decline. These interactions stimulate cognitive functions, keeping the brain active and sharp. Friendships help us grow mentally and learn new things by discussing current events, sharing memories and exploring new interests. Staying social can lower risk of depression, improve brain health and possibly slow down the progression of dementia, according to the Alzheimers Association.Physical health: Believe it or not, friendships can have a tangible impact on seniors physical health. Engaging in social activities for seniors and spending quality time with friends can reduce stress levels and promote a healthier immune system. Friends motivate each other to be active, do fun things and take care of themselves, which improves their well-being.Longevity: Studies suggest that seniors with active social lives tend to live longer, enjoying a higher quality of life as they age.Embracing Technology for ConnectionIn todays digital age, technology has opened new avenues for seniors to stay connected, even when physical distances separate them. Video calls, social media platforms and online interest groups offer opportunities to forge connections beyond the walls of their immediate surroundings, fostering a sense of unity and shared experiences.How Do I Meet New Friends After Retirement?As we grow older, finding friends and staying socially active doesnt happen on its own. It demands dedication, encouragement and persistent effort to cultivate genuine bonds.Here are several ways seniors can meet new people and reap the health advantages of social engagement:Try volunteering within your local community.Seek the support of community resources, like senior centers and senior living communities.Enroll in classes or workshops, whether for learning new skills or for leisure. This introduces you to people with shared interests, and the setting encourages regular interactions, making it easier to form friendships.Attend local events, fairs, markets and festivals. These gatherings often attract people from the community, providing an opportunity to strike up conversations and make new social connections.Participate in fitness classes, yoga sessions, walking groups or other exercise programs designed for seniors. Where Is the Best Place for Seniors to Make Friends?One of the best places for seniors to establish and nurture meaningful friendships is within a senior living community. These communities are designed to create an environment that promotes companionship and shared experiences, making them the perfect place for seniors to establish new connections.At Anthology, we understand the power of social connections. We create a lively atmosphere where people connect, laugh and form friendships through enjoyable activities like arts and crafts and communal dining. We design our events to spark conversations, forge bonds and provide the nurturing connections that contribute to healthier, happier lives.Whether its a beautiful day out in the park with friends, a festive BBQ or a vibrant dance class, residents at Anthology of Olathe are greeted with connection every day. Anthology of Boynton Beach celebrates seniors with social activities like happy hours and chef demos that foster connections.Creating a Community of ConnectionWe cannot overstate the importance of social connections and how they keep seniors healthy. As we get older, the relationships we build with loved ones and peers are crucial for our overall health and happiness. For older adults looking for these social connections, senior living communities can offer a way to make new friendships and form a consistent support group.

To learn more aboutEnvida, CLICK HERE.One of the first programs in the US that connects individuals suffering with mental illness crises andaddictions to mental health professionals and facilities through a unique transportation program(Colorado Springs, Colo. September 10, 2020) Transportation obstacles have long been identified asbarriers for individuals to receive mental health support which, according to the Center for DiseaseControl and Prevention study, has seen a marked increase since the beginning of the COVID-19pandemic.Envida, provides home care and transportation to those in need in El Paso and Teller counties,realized that individuals necessary mental health care needs werent being met, so they implementeda program that specifically addresses transportation to get individuals to and from their mental healthappointments. These appointments help address substance abuse, anxiety, isolation and depression all conditions known to be aggravated by COVID-19 and often leading to crisis.What makes Envidas program unique is:One of the first programs in the US that connects individuals suffering with mental illnesscrises and addictions to mental health professionals and facilities through a uniquetransportation program.Envida utilizes state of the art software that allows individuals to manage their mental healthappointments with confidence and confidentiality, while building their independence.Envida's drivers are specially trained in mental health response to foster safe and trustingrelationships with riders.Funded primarily through grants from the Federal Transit Administration, Colorado Community HealthAlliance and the National Center for Mobility Management, Envidas mental health transportationprogram has recently finished its test phase and is currently implementing its pilot programthroughout El Paso and Teller counties in Colorado. The goal is for Envidas program to be a replicablemodel for cities to implement throughout the U.S.Envida first rolled out the test program last year, and we had an amazing response, said Gail Nehls,Envidas Chief Executive Officer. Starting in November we had 87 rides scheduled by February wehad over 400 rides scheduled. Then the pandemic hit, and telehealth appointments becamenecessary. However, telehealth does not address individuals in crisis, so weve pivoted to providingrides for individuals experiencing mental health crises and have seen our ridership increase over 4fold, Nehls continued. At the end of the day, we want to be sure to give our clients greater accessto mental health. We want to save lives.

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