Last week we reviewed the critical role physical activity plays as we strive to grow older, wisely. However, there is another part of the human body that is undeniably crucial in healthy aging – the brain. Lucky for us, exercising the brain can be quite enjoyable.
While not technically a muscle, scientists say the way a brain signals, and serves as a foundation for learning and memory, is similar to the signals that tell our muscles to contract. Why is that important? Because we must also “exercise” our brain just like we must exercise our body’s muscles. One of the best ways to exercise our brain is tospend a significant amount of time interacting socially with others.
This does not mean we must have a social calendar that rivals the royal family, nor does it mean we should never be alone. However, we must actively identify, implement and practice opportunities to engage and converse with others. We must seek out options to interact with others, participate in those activities even when it is uncomfortable, and continue the cycle.
The benefits of socialization are numerous. Studies show a 70% reduction in cognitive decline rates for those who routinely engage socially. Engaging in social activities stimulates attention, memory and the growth of new neural connections – essential for cognitive function.
Interaction with others also reduces stress or anxiety and can help us combat depression and enhance mental health … it often gives us a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Finally, social interaction can lower the risk of dementia.
Unfortunately, it is more difficult to connect with others as we age. According to Psychology Today, as we age changes in our brain affect social behavior. Our social circles are shrinking, due to life changes and actual brain network evolution.
What are life changes? Remember when we grew up, went to class every day, had similar interests with classmates and actively pursued those interests? It was easy.
Then there was work, church or community involvement. It was always easy and convenient to strike up a conversation. Family duties meant constant interpersonal interface. Now, as we grow older, it is often more difficult to spend time interacting with others. The list of roadblocks to social interaction is depressing … it may be hard to hear conversations; we may feel others do not care about what we have to say; our life-long friends and family may have passed away; or we may forget what we are discussing mid-story. We may be embarrassed to reveal our mental capabilities to others. We may believe that we have nothing of value to share.
Accessibility is a challenge … just how will we travel to be with others to practice socialization? Often, we are less likely to bump into others because we are not leaving our homes.
Social interaction, or socialization, can be one of the best parts about growing older.
Luckily for us, it also benefits our health and well-being. In the months to come, we will explore how we can increase our socialization opportunities as well as review various tactics to maximize our cognitive function as we age.
Need socialization? Both the Cross Timbers Legacy Center and the Dublin Public Library host myriad events perfect for senior citizens to get involved.
Don’t live in Stephenville? With the Cross Timbers Legacy Center it doesn’t matter. It is free and open to the public. Come on over!
As always, if you have feedback or suggestions as to a future topic for the “On Aging Wisely” column, please just contact me at amykeithmcdonald@ gmail. com.