Sometimes it can be quite difficult for seniors to feel connected and a sense of purpose as they age and are placed in situations that may result in drastic changes. Some of these life altering situations include retirement, the loss of friends and family, an inability to complete certain tasks and the shift from living at home to a retirement or long-term care home. Therefore, it is very important that seniors remain and/or become connected with life in order to establish this level of purpose and belonging within themselves and their communities. 

Seniors with high levels of social connectedness have 43% less disability than those who have low levels of social connectedness

The proof in numbers

There is clear evidence that shows how much of a positive impact social connection has on seniors. The rate of cognitive and intellectual decay is 70% less in seniors with frequent social contact than those with low social interaction (Suttie, 2014). Seniors with high levels of social connectedness have 43% less disability than those who have low levels of social connectedness (Suttie, 2014). 

Some other benefits of social connection and participation include a reduced risk of mortality and depression and improved self-rated health and health related behaviours. A high level of connectedness results in increased feelings of self-efficacy, a sense of meaning and purpose as well as an improvement in mental health (Gilmour, 2012). Seniors who are socially involved can lead to the possibility of disease prevention, increased longevity, a decrease in physical health problems as well as a decrease in the risk of elder abuse (The Nursing Care Home Center, 2019).  

Consistency is Key

As much as we want to focus on the positive effects of connection and purpose on seniors, it is important to note that all of these effects can easily be reversed and impacted quite negatively if seniors do not feel socially connected. Social engagement and involvement are an extremely meaningful part of life that must be effectively promoted and practiced for successful aging to occur in seniors. Ultimately, being able to demonstrate a high level of connectedness and belonging among our seniors will contribute to the prevention and resolution of senior isolation and loneliness. 

References

Gilmour, H. (2012). Statistics Canada: Social participation and the health and well-being of 

Canadian seniors

Suttie, J. (2014). How Social Connections Keep Seniors Healthy

The Nursing Home Abuse Center. (2019). Why Social Connection is Important for Seniors