Here’s why socialization is so important to the health and well-being of our seniors
By Mitch Allen
Since the phrase “social distancing” entered the vernacular in 2020, much research has been done to determine its effects. It turns out the virus itself has not been the only cause of illness. So has our isolation, which has resulted in dramatically increased rates of many diseases.
But isolation is nothing new to scientists studying aging. The importance of social interaction for seniors is well-documented. Staying involved in families and communities can help fight disease and keep you happy throughout your later life. The National Institute on Aging (NIA) reports that seniors who are more social are less likely to have Alzheimer’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and some forms of cancer. Furthermore, Psychology Today has reported that socialization is a great way to prevent mental illness, like depression, and can contribute to a longer life.
Unfortunately, loneliness today is easier than ever. DoorDash can deliver our favorite meals; grocery staffers shop the food aisles for us; movies, plays and concerts are live-streamed into our own living rooms, and in-person friendships have been replaced by “likes” and “comments” on social media.
And not seeing others means we are less motivated to keep our homes tidy and take care of personal hygiene.
An Active Lifestyle at Copeland Oaks
One of the best ways to ensure proper socialization is to join a retirement community that specializes in it. That’s Copeland Oaks, in the quaint village of Sebring, Ohio. It’s a 55+ community located on a 250-acre campus with all the amenities you need to enjoy an active, well-deserved retirement.
Wellness activities include an aquatics and fitness center, which is home to recreational programs, personal training, and aerobics, along with classes like Zumba, chair exercises, and line dancing.
“Residents also enjoy nature trails, a bass-fishing lake, fishing pier, pickle ball court, and putting green,” says Lisa Gentile, Chief Development Officer and Senior Campus Director at Copeland Oaks. “Everyone has access to plenty of activities to keep them active and involved, including fun-filled travel opportunities and special events.”
At the nearby University of Mount Union, Copeland residents enjoy concerts, lectures, theater and sporting events. On-campus activities include ice cream socials, live entertainment, holiday celebrations and a lot more.
“We also have a library, woodworking shop, community garden area, and Creativity Center, which is home to classes for painting, drawing, handcrafts, needlework, photography, jewelry making and more,” Lisa says. “The Copeland Chorale is also a popular choice among our residents.”
In addition, there’s plenty of shopping just minutes away, as well as a free lifetime membership and golf for residents at the nearby Berlin Lake Golf Club.
Living Options
Copeland Oaks is a completely debt-free, non-profit venture, and it does not require an entrance fee to move in.
For those seeking independent living, there are two different options: Choose one of the 140 fully independent ranch-style villas located on quiet, tree-lined streets, or one of Copeland Oaks’ beautiful apartments featuring a glorious view of the lake.
The zero-maintenance lifestyle means all landscaping and maintenance are taken care of. You can even schedule housekeeping, for a truly worry-free living experience.
“Our residents have spent their lives working and raising families. It’s time for them to be able to enjoy themselves without the stressful upkeep of a home,” Lisa says. “Here, the only responsibility they need to bother themselves with is which activities they want to participate in.”
4 Ways Seniors Can Stay Social
Remaining socially engaged is essential in our senior years to maintain our physical and mental wellbeing. Here are four ways to improve your connection to others:
- Join Groups or Clubs: Interest groups or clubs are a great form of social interaction for seniors. Are there any new skills you’ve always wanted to try, or is there a former hobby you’ve been meaning to pick back up? It’s likely you can find a group of people to do it with you.
- Volunteering: Volunteering is another great way for seniors to stay active in their community. Studies have shown that seniors who give back to their communities reported significant improvements in their mental health, increased productivity, and a greater sense of happiness in life overall.
- Having Standing Dates: Reach out to your friends or family members and see if they’d be willing to set a standing date to meet with you regularly. If once a week is tough to fit into a busy schedule, meeting with friends and family once or twice a month is a great way to keep you social! Plus, it keeps you involved in your family and friend’s lives, giving you something to look forward to regularly.
- Join a Retirement Community: Living on your own can be lonely. Many retirement communities offer a variety of group activities, including hobby-based groups, religious groups, and more. Copeland Oaks is able to improve the lives of seniors aged 55 and older, regardless of how much or little living assistance they need. Through their living facilities and activity groups, they encourage all residents to stay active in the retirement community, engage with arts and humanities, and live their later years to the fullest.
Copeland Oaks is located at 800 S. 15th Street in Sebring, Ohio. Tours are by appointment with evenings and weekends available. To schedule your personal tour, call 330-938-6126. The web address is CopelandOaks.com.