Staying Social in Retirement: Clubs and Activities at Santa Marta

Research shows that social isolation can actually harm your health. However, according to the National Institute on Aging, seniors who maintain an active lifestyle live longer, think better, are more resilient and are happier. But after you retire and the kids leave to start lives of their own, you may not have the social connections (or the opportunity to make new ones) that you once did.

If you think back to earlier chapters of your life, part of making friends was just being around people of a similar age who shared your interests. You didn’t have to work at forming friendships. They just happened over time. So how do you find more ways to socialize and form new friendships? Active retirement communities like Santa Marta could be the solution you’ve been looking for.

Health Benefits of Having a Healthy Social Life

Social opportunities for seniors are important to your overall health and wellness. In fact, increasing your social interaction can provide a variety of benefits including:

• Longer life. People with more social support and relationships tend to live longer than those who are more isolated, and this is true regardless of your overall level of health.
• Better physical health. Friendship is associated with a stronger immune system, so you’ll have a better chance of fighting off colds, the flu, and even some types of cancer. You could also have a reduced risk of cardiovascular problems, osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis as well lower blood pressure.
• Improved mental health. Interacting with others boosts well-being and decreases feelings of depression.
• Lower risk of dementia. Social people generally perform better on tests of memory and other cognitive skills and are less likely to develop dementia. However, socializing is most effective when coupled with an overall healthy lifestyle that includes a nutritious diet and physical activity.

You’re Never Too Old to Make New Friends

Here are the types of social activities for seniors you’ll find by moving to a Life Plan Community like Santa Marta that can help you stay social and improve your quality of life:

• Group activities. Most senior living communities have a robust social life with plenty of activities for seniors to choose from: yoga or morning stretch activities, arts and crafts, happy hours and educational seminars. Even if it’s not something that interests you, give it a try. The opportunity to socialize is more important than the activity. As you make friends, you’ll be able to invite them to do the things that interest you.
• Explore your interests. For example, if you like to read, join the book club. If there isn’t a book club, see about starting one. It’s a great way to spend time with others who share your interests and begin forming friendships
• Dining is a social time. At Santa Marta, going to the dining room is a perfect time to meet people and make connections. As you talk with your dinner companions, you’re sure to find you have a lot in common.
• Get out and about. Most senior living communities offer a robust monthly calendar featuring a variety of events including outings to local social, dining and entertainment options.

Santa Marta Has a Thriving Social Life

At our retirement living community in Olathe, we feature over 200 monthly activities including senior social clubs, classes, outings and more. Chat with one of our friendly senior living counselors to learn more about Santa Marta’s activities and independent living lifestyle by contacting us here.