Tips & Education

The Importance of Social Relationships for Senior Health

July 30th, 2024

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Social relationships are vital for senior health. Regular interaction with friends, family, and community members helps reduce the loneliness and isolation common among seniors. At Cristwood Park and Crista Shores, activities and events encourage socialization, assisting residents in building meaningful relationships. From music classes and table games to art classes, residents have various ways to stay socially connected. As a community with many Christians, there is ample opportunity for fellowship in Bible studies and prayer groups as well as one-on-one interactions. These connections provide emotional and spiritual support and stimulate the mind, providing a sense of purpose essential for mental health.

Physical Health Advantages

Social relationships also positively affect physical health. Seniors who maintain strong social connections tend to have lower blood pressure, reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases, and a stronger immune system. Physical activities are often designed to be social. Group exercise classes and walking clubs encourage physical activity while fostering social bonds. These activities keep seniors active and make exercising more enjoyable, promoting overall senior health.

Active lifestyles are crucial for seniors, and social relationships can motivate residents to stay active. In senior living communities like Cristwood Park and Crista Shores, residents are encouraged to participate in group fitness classes, which provide physical and social interaction where seniors can exercise together and form friendships. These social exercise sessions help seniors stay motivated and consistent with their physical activities, leading to better health outcomes.

Emotional Support Systems

Emotional support systems are vital for senior health. Friends and family provide a network of support that can help seniors cope with life’s challenges. Senior living communities emphasize the importance of creating support systems among residents. CRISTA Senior Living has chaplains and a resident-run grief support group available for residents to provide emotional support. It also provides a safety net that enhances overall well-being and reduces stress, positively impacting physical health.

Enhancing Cognitive Function

Social engagement is known to enhance cognitive function, which is a critical aspect of senior health. At Cristwood Park, the amenities, puzzle clubs, game nights, and health and wellness workshops stimulate the mind and encourage cognitive engagement. These activities help promote mental sharpness by keeping the brain active, reducing the risk of cognitive decline, and improving memory and problem-solving skills.

Building a Sense of Community

Building a sense of community is essential for senior health. At Cristwood Park and Crista Shores, creating a close-knit community where residents feel connected and valued is a priority. Community events and social gatherings help build a strong sense of belonging. Being part of a community enhances mental well-being and provides a support network invaluable for senior health.

Social relationships have a profound impact on senior health. By promoting mental well-being, improving physical health, encouraging active lifestyles, providing emotional support, enhancing cognitive function, and building a strong sense of community, senior living communities ensure that seniors enjoy a high quality of life. Strong social connections are essential for maintaining and enhancing senior health, making these communities exemplary models of senior care.

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What People Are Saying …

I would like to commend Cristwood Park staff on their efforts to protect themselves and their residents from COVID. It’s been a concern of ours since last March and we have been relieved to see so few cases in the Cristwood Park community. I would like to thank the staff and leadership for their diligence in maintaining good protocols throughout this pandemic.

CWP Family Member

CRISTA has been a warm, friendly atmosphere to be a part of these past two years. It encourages friendships that encourage a pleasant living environment.

Marty Victor, CWP

Exceptional personalized holistic care. Helps keep Mom’s mind active and she flourishes with the nurturing care. Especially of value currently given the COVID restrictions. We are genuinely pleased with our mom's care.

Resident's Daughter, Memory Care

Thinking back on all the great care you and your team have given her at CRISTA, we thank you for all that. I am sure it made a difference in the quality of her life.

I appreciate the personal relationship I have with the staff and the good communication they give me.

I am so stunned by all the amazing people who live at CRISTA. The depth of their stories, their experiences are so powerful. They are fascinating and I learn something new every day! Such a wealth of intellect, experiences, and fun loving people. I love living here.

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