Social isolation increases the risks of heart disease, infectious illness, anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline. Retirement living can contribute to a solution by offering seniors more daily opportunities to socialize with peers through recreational activities, themed social events, discussion groups and meals with friends. Socializing in a retirement community can improve health by strengthening the heart, reducing depression and anxiety, boosting brain health and immunity, and encouraging more physical activity.

People who feel and see themselves as younger than their chronological age tend to experience better health and longevity. A positive view of aging bolsters brain and heart health, builds psychological resilience and preserves hearing. A youthful outlook is also associated with lower depression and hospitalization risks, fewer aches and pains, and less frailty.

If you‘ve fallen into believing your individual efforts to go green won’t make a difference, think about your grand- and great-grandchildren, and the kind of world they will inherit. Also consider that there are over seven million people over 65 in Canada today*; if every senior were to implement even one of the following eco-friendly suggestions, think of the difference it would make!

Health Canada advises older adults get at least 2.5 hours of moderate-to-vigorous aerobic activity each week, in sessions of at least 10 minutes at a time. They also recommend adding bone and muscle-strengthening exercise twice a week,* especially useful for balance and preventing falls.

Intergenerational programs that foster stronger connections between seniors and younger generations offer a wide range of cognitive, emotional, and physical health benefits for older adults. Studies show that intergenerational connections lift mood, sharpen mind and memory, and reduce social isolation. Active participation in intergenerational programs also boosts health, improves self-esteem, and helps older adults find meaning and purpose.

Maintaining, expanding, or deepening social connections in your daily life can help to prevent or ease depression and anxiety, protect your heart, and strengthen your immune system. Studies show that strong social ties and support also boost brain health and may reduce the risk of dementia, lower the risk of physical disability, and are associated with greater longevity.

For many seniors, a retirement residence provides—on several levels—the peace of mind they are looking for. But what does peace of mind mean to you?

For seniors, friends definitely come with benefits: here are four ways to enjoy your friendships this summer:

Recently, Chartwell’s CEO, Vlad Volodarski, was asked to be a guest on episode eight of Seniors Junction, a podcast discussing social isolation among older adults.

Retirement communities offer built-in social opportunities to enjoy group outdoor activities safely, socialize when you eat, chat with friends next door or down the hall even if from a distance, and be supported by peers and staff.

Families with senior loved ones living alone in their own homes right now may feel concerned for their overall health and well-being.

Do you live on your own? Are you finding that the pandemic has you continually making the difficult choice between feeling alone at home or risking your safety to go out and run errands or meet with family and friends?