50+ Lifestyles

Your Advocacy Connection

We Solve Long Term Care Problems

Staying Social and Active as You Age

By Naomi Ballard
GolderCare Solutions
Marketing and Communications

Staying social and active as you age has numerous health benefits, including keeping your memory sharp and reducing your risk of loneliness and depression. More than 13 million adults age 65+ are living alone in their homes, making this an important topic to address. The extreme weather of the Midwest can often hinder our ability to stay active and social, but should not be an excuse to isolate ourselves.

For many of us, the strongest connection we have is family. Family knows us best, they know our history, traditions and what brings us joy. Although we may feel guilty to reach out to our loved ones for a visit or help, cultivating family togetherness can be valuable all around. Don’t underestimate the value that the older generation can have on the younger. Using family time to share old stories or pass on traditions can be priceless. Despite the hectic and busy schedules that compete for our time, if you have family, foster it.

Joining community organizations and giving back are great ways to stay engaged and active. If you have a talent, consider teaching others your skill. If you simply want to lend a hand, there are many organizations that need volunteers to make their programs run smoothly. Community food pantries, youth programs and animal shelters will welcome you with open arms!

If you want to learn something new, sign up for a class or special interest group in your area. Meet new people and enjoy a hobby or skill that you love at the same time! Most cities and towns have a Senior Center that can have endless opportunities for you to explore. Community colleges offer classes on topics ranging from photography and art to cooking and woodwork. Don’t shy away because it’s for “old people.” Stay younger than ever by getting connected.

Travel and sightseeing can also have unlimited benefits for our aging community. Whether you are a tourist in your own backyard or exploring a completely different culture, sightseeing can promote extra walking and can enrich your mind with new experiences. If transportation is a challenge, carpooling with friends or joining a trip through a senior center or tourism group can assist in getting where you want to go. Embrace adventure, then share your stories with family and friends!

One method of engagement that many find difficult to embrace is technology. A computer, tablet or smartphone can help you connect on social media such as Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Social media can help you stay up to date with family and reconnect with old friends! The internet expands our world, you can meet people with similar interests and build great friendships through the web! If you are wary of technology, ask a younger family member for help you learn or join a class through a local college or senior center. And of course, learning about internet safety and how to be aware of scams and danger is equally important.

If you have older friends or family members that are reluctant to get involved in social activity, be on alert for depression and health decline. Once you know why an older adult isn’t engaging in social activity, you can look into options such as covering the cost of a class, assist with transportation to an activity or even encouraging them to seek medical treatment for a condition that’s holding them back. Most people that are reluctant to get themselves out, say they are glad they did once they took the leap!

If this topic interests you, please visit our website www.goldercare.com for our latest webinar education discussing this topic and many other important aspects of aging. At GolderCare, our primary focus is providing education and advocacy to seniors and their families. For more information or to discuss your own aging concerns, contact GolderCare at (309) 764-2273.

GolderCare Solutions is an independent advocacy group for seniors, the disabled and those that care for them. GolderCare has offices in Moline and Bettendorf. You can reach GolderCare at (309) 764-2273 or learn more at www.goldercare.com.