For older adults, social engagement can become more challenging to achieve. However, that doesn’t diminish its impact on health and mental wellness.

If you live with anxiety, you may feel like you’re the only person who feels the way you do. But, believe it or not, anxiety disorders are significantly common and impact over 40 million people in America. And while it’s hard to know an exact number since many instances are undiagnosed, it’s estimated that as many as 27% of seniors live with some type of anxiety.

Today’s older adults are healthier and more active than any generation before them. You may have heard the phrase, “70 is the new 50”, and it’s true! Americans are living longer, healthier lives, and it’s changing the way society views retirement and aging.

According to a recent study done by Pew Research Center, 45% of adults 65 and over use at least one social media site. This number has grown largely due in part to the COVID-19 pandemic, as social media has been an excellent way to stay connected during social distancing and quarantine orders.

If your parent or loved one has a memory impairment, it can be emotionally challenging at times. It is hard to see someone you care deeply about forget cherished memories, or even more difficult, forget who you are.

With the increase of online social communities, the evaluation of social interaction has changed considerably in the last few decades. However, one thing remains consistent - the absence of social interactions may lead to social isolation. While social isolation may not sound like a significant concern, it can increase our risk of developing depression, anxiety, and a weakened immune system.

The role relationships and social interactivity play in our day to day life is staggering. The ability to craft trusting, caring and loving relationships is vital to our wellbeing. Whether the relationship is professional, platonic, or even romantic, it plays a significant role in helping us achieve a feeling of social belonging.

At Brickmont Assisted Living, we believe that everyone deserves to be happy and to truly achieve happiness, one must practice self-love. Have you ever heard the phrase, “You have to love yourself before you love somebody else?” Whether or not you believe this statement to be true, it is essential always to remember to remain positive to feel good about yourself.

 Exercise is an important part of everyone’s health, regardless of your mobility status. One of the biggest myths in exercise for seniors is that you cannot exercise if you are in a wheelchair. This is simply not true! There are regimens completely based around exercising in a chair. There is some level of safe exercise for everyone, but you may want to inquire with your doctor before starting a new exercise regimen.