Socialization for Seniors: Why It’s Vital and Nourishing in Cary, NC
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Humans are wired to connect, and social behavior directly affects health, according to research published in the Journal of Psychiatry and Neuroscience.
- Strong social networks are linked to better cognition and a protective effect against dementia, per the American Public Health Association.
- Expanding your social circle is linked to higher physical activity and more positive moods, according to a Harvard Health Publishing-covered study in The Journals of Gerontology.
The Templeton of Cary prioritizes socialization for seniors in Cary, NC, because we understand that living is about more than just going through the motions.
Why Humans Are Wired to Connect
Connecting with others adds sweetness and meaning to life. From time spent nurturing lifelong relationships to meeting new friends and neighbors, positive interactions with others feed the spirit and the mind. The scientific community agrees—an article published in The Journal of Psychiatry and Neuroscience reports, “Humans are inherently social. We are not special in this way; it is hard to think of any animal for whom the regulation of social behavior is not important.”
Biological Anthropologist Michael Platt, Ph.D., discussed the need to connect at a recent Society for Neuroscience event, saying, “human beings are wired to connect – and we have the most complex and interesting social behavior out of all animals.”
The Cognitive and Mental Health Benefits of Socialization for Older Adults
The need to socialize doesn’t go away as we age. In fact, the American Public Health Association cites the direct link between socializing and mental health benefits for older adults: “Emerging evidence suggests that social support networks may have a positive influence on cognition and a protective association with the development of dementia among older adults.” A recent article in Harvard Health Publishing covering a study published in The Journals of Gerontology, Series B, emphasizes the benefits of older adults expanding their social circle, including “higher levels of physical activity, greater positive moods and fewer negative feelings.”
How The Templeton of Cary Makes Socialization Effortless
Establishing residence in one of our Assisted Living or Memory Support communities means that socialization and a sense of belonging are beautifully woven into everyday life. In what feels like an instant, social circles expand and calendars fill with a refreshing array of engaging activities. Safety is always a consideration, as we understand how important staying well is for our residents.
Transportation is taken care of for off-site excursions so that you or your loved one can relax and soak up every moment of fun! From attending musicals and plays to enjoying the sunshine at a waterfront park, there is always something to look forward to and the experience is elevated when shared with friends.
A Full Calendar of Activities for Every Level of Care
We are passionate about creating warm, engaging communities where residents lead fulfilling lives. Our life enrichment activities are tailored to residents with this in mind. To get a glimpse of what’s in store, browse the calendar of events posted online. You’ll find a multitude of activities for all levels of care, including Memory Support, where socialization is built into daily routines through structured, familiar activities. On-site possibilities may include virtual and community worship services, exercise classes, music and pet therapy, arts and crafts, on-site socials, happy hours and more.
Building Meaningful Friendships
Forming relationships with adults in a similar life stage brings comfort, understanding, accountability and inspiration. Especially when it comes to exercise and nutrition, knowing friends are looking forward to seeing you or your loved one at yoga class or in the dining room can be incredibly motivating. Sharing laughs and stories about favorite memories can be therapeutic and deepen bonds. When challenges arise, as they inevitably do, adult friendships are a soothing balm to the heart and soul.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is socialization important for older adults?
Socialization supports both mental and physical health as we age. Research links strong social networks to better cognition and a protective effect against dementia, along with higher physical activity levels and more positive moods, benefits that become even more important once daily routines change.
How does socialization support residents in Memory Support?
Socialization in Memory Support is built into structured, familiar daily activities, such as music and pet therapy, arts and crafts and community gatherings, that are tailored to residents’ abilities. This consistent, engaging routine helps residents stay connected and supported, even as memory changes.
What social activities are available at The Templeton of Cary?
The Templeton of Cary’s life enrichment calendar includes worship services, exercise classes, music and pet therapy, arts and crafts, on-site socials, happy hours and off-site excursions, such as musicals, plays and waterfront parks, with transportation provided.
Does The Templeton of Cary offer socialization for both Independent Living and Assisted Living residents?
Yes. Independent Living residents and those at Swift Creek at The Templeton, our Assisted Living and Memory Support community, both have access to a full calendar of life enrichment activities designed to keep residents connected.
Schedule a Visit at The Templeton of Cary
Liberty Senior Living, LLC, is a division of Liberty Healthcare Management that specializes in senior living and retirement communities. Based in North Carolina and established in 1875, Liberty Healthcare Management is an experienced, family-owned company that has been assisting people to manage their healthcare and residential needs for over 145 years. To learn more about Liberty Senior Living and the communities they offer, please visit www.LibertySeniorLiving.com.
Ready to see what a socially engaged, active lifestyle looks like in Cary, NC? Schedule a visit at The Templeton of Cary to explore Independent Living, or learn more about Assisted Living and Memory Support at Swift Creek at The Templeton.