Whether we’re eight or 88, we all need human interaction. Typically, eight-year olds don’t have a problem getting enough – they spend the day with their friends and teachers at school and then go home to their families in the evening. Older adults on the other hand, don’t always have as many family members or friends at their disposal. It can become much more challenging to fill that void. This can be especially difficult for adults who wish to age in the comfort of their own homes. Remaining at home helps people maintain their independence but can also become an obstacle to preserving social ties.
Social isolation can not only lead to feelings of loneliness and depression but can also negatively affect our health. Research suggests that social isolation can be just as damaging to our health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day! Social isolation is also associated with an increased risk of developing heart disease, experiencing strokes or high blood pressure. As a result of the impact on physical and mental well-being, these individuals have a 30% higher risk of dying in the next seven years.
The good news? With just a little effort, there are ways we can combat this epidemic. Here in Arizona, we are blessed with well over 100 Senior Centers offering a wide range of classes, groups and opportunities to get out and make new connections. Simply by getting involved in a community group, learning something new or taking up a new sport we can keep our minds and bodies happy and healthy for longer.
You might be thinking, “What kind of sport can I pick up at my age?” Bowling is year-round sport that can be enjoyed any day of the week by people of all ages! Whether you were a bowler in your younger years and thinking about getting back into it or just looking to learn something new, the guys at Vital Signs Pro Bowling Shop in Sun City, can assist. Everything from ball weight and shoe choice to hand position and posture will determine how your ball will roll down the lane and the guys at Vital Signs are eager to guide you each step of the way. Still unsure? Check out this review by Louis Schempf (self-proclaimed “old” guy) extolling their dedication to simply educating him and their patience while doing so.
They’re not only incredibly knowledgeable when it comes to bowling but are also dedicated to assisting their community however they can. Owners, Joe and Patrick, graciously and without hesitation, donated a ball to be raffled off in support of the Alzheimer’s Association. Because of their assistance and the generous Uptown Alley League bowlers who participated in the raffle, CypressHomeCare Solutions was able to donate $1,300 to this extremely worthy cause.
So, whether you’re eight or 88, (and your doctor approves it) these guys can assist with one of the many ways our there to maintain those social connections that are so vital to our health and general well-being.
