By Teresa Carr
Adams County Senior Council
Administrative Assistant
Loneliness can be a major challenge for seniors as we grow older, but staying connected is vital for both physical and mental health. Social engagement can boost mood, improve cognitive function, and even help prevent chronic diseases.
· Enhances Cognitive Function: Regular social interaction can help keep the mind sharp and may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia.
· Combats Depression and Loneliness: Engaging in social activities provides a sense of belonging and can significantly decrease feelings of depression and loneliness.
· Improves Emotional Health: Social connections can boost mood and self-esteem, contributing to overall emotional well-being.
· Encourages Physical Activity: Social gatherings often involve some level of physical activity, which is beneficial for physical health and can also improve mental health.
· Reduces Stress: Being around others and engaging in enjoyable activities can lower stress levels.
· Increases Longevity: Studies have shown that a strong social network can increase lifespan by promoting positive health behaviors and reducing the risk of isolation.
· Enhances Quality of Life: Regular social engagement can lead to a more fulfilling and enjoyable life in the senior years.
· Supports a Sense of Purpose: Participating in social activities can provide seniors with a sense of purpose and motivation.
· Boosts Immune System: Positive social interactions can strengthen the immune system, leading to better overall health.
· Facilitates Learning and Skill Development: Social settings often provide opportunities for learning new skills or information, keeping the brain active and engaged.
The Adams County Senior Citizens office has a Senior Center area available during office hours (Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. that can be used for a small to medium size group. As long as the room is available, feel free to start a group or activity that you enjoy. Crafts, crochet, diamond art, coloring, cards, or a support group, we would love to see the room used.
Every Thursday, a group uses the room for playing cards and socializing. On the third Thursday each month, we have sponsors who provide a free lunch and then play Fun Bingo with small items as prizes.
While many may not enjoy playing cards, one woman brings her Yahtzee game to play with several of the group. If there is a specific board game you enjoy, come in each Thursday from 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. and have some fun, a few laughs and engage with this lively group of really wonderful folks.
By the way, the next Free Lunch & Game Day will be on Thursday, October 16 and we encourage all who attend to dress up for Halloween. There will be a few vendors here along with our Sponsors for the event and while you’re here, take some time for a free CarFit review.
CarFit helps you to make sure your seats, seat belt, mirrors and other parts of your vehicle are in working order, such as horn, lights, etc. This is a free check up before the snow flies for your safety while driving. Mark your calendar and dress up for fun, decorate a pumpkin, enjoy some lunch and make some new friends! We hope to see you here.
Just A Thought: “Sing the song that only you can sing, write the book that only you can write, build the product that only you can build… live the life that only you can live.” ~Naval Ravikant
