by Dana Rubin‑Winkelman, MSW, CAPSW, Social Worker, Adult Day Services
I hope you and your family are well. I am thinking of you and sending my positive thoughts. I hope to bridge the distance through this electronic connection.
Social connections are vital for emotional and cognitive health. Amazingly, strong social ties may slow memory loss, protect against depression, and improve overall quality of life. The former U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy issued a Surgeon General Advisory on the epidemic of loneliness and isolation, declaring it a public health crisis (May 2023). “According to the Surgeon General’s report, lacking social connection can increase the risk for premature death as much as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day. The risk for dementia is higher as well.” (Cori Vanchieri) Today, let’s learn about the benefits of regular socialization. I have also included simple tips for connection, information about our fabulous Recharge Brain Health Class, ways to make brain health a social occasion, and delightful music. Let’s get connected!
“Humans are social creatures; we thrive on connection and belonging, which nourish our spirits and enrich our lives.” (author unknown)
HOW SOCIAL CONNECTIONS MAKE US HEALTHIER:
1. Emotional Benefits of Social Connection: Amazingly, people with a strong social support system may lead happier, healthier, and even longer lives. Regular socialization and meaningful relationships bond people together and offer a sense of belonging. During challenging times, friends/family also assist with emotional support, kindness, and empathy. Additionally, as social circles tend to shrink with age, for older adults, it is particularly important to find ways to connect with others. When was the last time you spoke with friends/family? Make a point to have a cup of coffee or call someone today. After the interaction, notice how light you feel!
“A friend is a present you give yourself.” (Robert Louis Stevenson)
2. Cognitive Benefits of Social Connection: There are surprising neuroscience health benefits from social interaction. “Social interactions may directly modify our brains. For example, our social interactions may activate neural circuits, helping keep them flexible. It’s also reported that spending time in meaningful social interactions may help boost cognitive reserve and mental resilience…” (Austin Perlmutter, M.D.) Consequently, start prioritizing kehillah (community); the social connection is like a brain health intervention!
“Community is a place where we can experience love, acceptance, and a sense of belonging.” (author unknown)
3. Simple Tips for Meaningful Connection: Are social situations a little more challenging? Some people find social life uncomfortable. That’s okay, you aren’t alone. Still, I encourage you to challenge yourself and take one step toward connection; see if your heart follows. Show up, listen, and engage in conversation. Use the ideas below to move in the right direction.
- Call a friend or a family member to say hello and ask how they are doing. Who brings a smile to your face?
- Go out with a friend. Together, enjoy a movie, a book club, visit the museum, or a farmer’s market. Which event will you choose?
- Bond with people in a meaningful way by putting your phone away. Smartphones distract and make it tougher to connect.
- Volunteer: This is a delightful way to connect with others and is linked to improved health. To learn about the volunteer opportunities at Ovation Communities, contact Jennifer Wilkowski, the Volunteer Coordinator.
4. Get Connected With Our Wonderful Recharge Class: This fun, interactive, research-based class brings people together while working to improve memory. Learn memory techniques, participate in creative mental/physical exercise, and enjoy social support. Members and families LOVE our programs! Classes meet in-person and virtually. For more information, contact Dawn Adler, Director, or Dana.
“Perhaps the secret of living well is not having all the answersbut in pursuing unanswerable questions in good company.” (Rachel Naomi Remen)
5. Make Brain Health a Social Occasion: “Engaging in conversations, games, or collaborative activities can strengthen the mind and improve memory, attention span, and problem-solving skills.” (Huntington County Council on Aging) Use the questions below to spark an entertaining chat. Laugh and learn something new!
- What is your most prized possession?
- What did you want to be when you were growing up?
- Who is your role model?
- If you could have a superpower, what would it be?
“Love is when you meet someone who tells you something new about yourself.” (Andre Breton)
6. Music With Connection: Use the tunes below to connect with your Jewish roots, nostalgic memories, and loved ones.
- “My Yiddishe Momme (My Jewish Mother)” sung by Cantor Azi Schwartz: Listen to this tender song. Click here for the (5-minute) video.
- “Old Friends” by Simon & Garfunkel: Enjoy a live 1977 recording (The Paul Simon Special). What a gorgeous melody! Click here for the (3-minute) video.
- “Happy Together” by The Turtles: Go back in time and connect with 1967. Click here for the (2+ minute) video.
- “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” by Claire Ryann, The Crosbys: This live performance by charming 4-year-old Claire Ryann and her dad will make you smile. Click here for the (2+ minute) video.
“Friendship is based on the oldest and most intrinsic human awareness that there is more to life than just ourselves.” (Christopher Hansard)
7. Speak Out Against Anti-Israel and Jewish Hate: Actor David Schwimmer said, “You don’t have to say anything political; no one’s asking you to solve the conflict in the Middle East. Just say that you stand with your Jewish friends, colleagues, and neighbors against hatred and discrimination.” Please bring Israel into your thoughts with this prayer by The Maccabeats: Avinu Shebashamayim – A Prayer for the Welfare for the State of Israel.
“When we feel love and kindness toward others, it not only makes others feel loved and cared for, but it helps us also develop inner happiness and peace.” (The Dalai Lama)
Increasing our social connections is a proactive way to live a healthy, happy life!
Do you have a question related to aging, memory loss, community resources, or caregiving? I am here and happy to assist! Please do not hesitate to contact me.
Thinking of you and sending all my positive energy, light, and love,
Dana
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