July is a month now more known for being social but why is this important for seniors of Florida? The short answers are depression, loneliness, and declining health. About 6.5 million seniors in the U.S. alone are experiencing both depression and loneliness and unfortunately, both of these factors affect long-term health.
July is officially ‘Social Wellness Month’ and you might be able to guess its meaning and the concept behind the idea. This month, Florida seniors are being encouraged to meet new people and participate in activities far outside their comfort zone. You don’t have to stray too far outside of where you feel comfortable but you want to do things differently than you normally would. To curb the nervousness, you can get friends and family involved. The entire purpose is to spread awareness of social isolation and the effects it can have on seniors.
As you start to get out of your shell, the expectation is that people will see an increase in their personal health and well-being simply through socializing. A lot of wellness concerns can be addressed through the smallest measures from having a conversation over the phone to communicating with people multiple times a week or day in person. You just have to have the courage to do it. Keep reading as we tell you all about this recognition month, what it means, and how it directly affects Florida seniors.
Being Social Can Enhance Your Wellness?
One of the most significant health benefits of social wellness is its positive influence on mental and emotional well-being. Engaging in social activity and connecting with others can often bring us a sense of joy and fulfillment. When we surround ourselves with supportive and caring people, and when we are that for others, we create a safety net that helps us navigate different challenges.
Paying close attention to our social wellness can give us a better sense of empathy, lower anxiety, and reduce rates of depression as well.
July Is a Month Dedicated to Getting Rid of Your Shell
Social Wellness Month is intended to have people of all ages come together, engage in meaningful conversations, and create lasting connections. This year, we want to shine the spotlight on our seniors and the importance this month holds for them as many seniors often face unique challenges when it comes to social interaction.
Many older adults may experience feelings of isolation or loneliness, especially if they are living alone or have limited mobility with limited support. This month provides an opportunity to address these issues and ensure that no one is left behind or feels unheard or unspoken for.
Florida, with its diverse population and rich activity scene, is an ideal place to celebrate Social Wellness Month. From bustling cities to serene coastal towns, the Sunshine State offers countless activities and events tailored to seniors’ interests and needs. Whether it’s attending a local art exhibit, joining a book club, or participating in a fitness class specifically designed for older adults, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved and connect with others even if you consider yourself to be the opposite of a social butterfly.
Seniors…Here’s Why This Month Matters
When it comes to overall well-being, social interaction plays a vital role in promoting a healthy and fulfilling life. Humans are naturally (in most cases) social beings and our connections with others have a significant impact on our mental, emotional, and even physical health. This is something that many people often forget and it’s why Social Wellness Month was started. As we celebrate Social Wellness Month in Florida, it’s important to recognize the numerous ways in which being social can enhance our wellness.
Keep in mind that social interaction provides us with a sense of belonging and community. When we engage in meaningful conversations, share experiences, and build relationships, we create a support system that can uplift us during challenging times which is something essential for the older population. For seniors, especially those who may be living alone or have limited social interactions, having connections with others can improve their overall well-being and day-to-day enjoyment.
Think of seniors with long-distance family members or that may be in a nursing home. These are Florida seniors that this month should be dedicated to. A strong social network can offer a sense of purpose, reduce feelings of isolation, and provide a source of emotional support which are things older adults should have.
Engaging in stimulating conversations and participating in group activities helps keep our minds active and sharp which can help combat neurological disorders (in some cases) in the long run. It can also boost our self-esteem and confidence. For seniors, maintaining cognitive function is particularly important in promoting healthy aging and reducing the risk of cognitive decline.
How to Get Involved
Across Florida, seniors can find a variety of social events that they can participate in. From yoga and spa socials and fitness socials to wellness groups and ‘speed’ friend mixers, many of these types of events are or can be tailored to older adults. If you don’t find anything that is your speed, you can always host your own. Keep in mind though, the purpose of July is to get out of your bubble and there are a variety of ways to do that.
This Month, Start Playing an Active Part in Your Health
Beyond the individual benefits, social wellness also has a positive impact on the broader community. When people come together and form strong social connections, it strengthens different societies and community ties. Communities thrive when individuals actively participate, contribute, and support one another and this is the point of the month of July.
Social engagement fosters a sense of unity, empathy, and collaboration… all things that directly contribute to the wellness of seniors. To learn more and to get more involved, make sure you stay active in your neighborhood and keep OurSeniors events on your calendar.
