Diet and exercise get most of the attention in healthy aging advice, and both are extremely important., However, there are other lifestyle factors that also promote health and wellbeing. Social connection, a sense of purpose, and daily structure all play important roles in overall health. Here’s what that research says, and why these factors deserve to be prioritized.
Social Connection Is a Health Behavior
Loneliness isn’t just an emotional discomfort. Researchers now treat chronic loneliness as a physical risk factor negatively impacting long-term health.
Health risks of social isolation include:
Daily, predictable connection over a shared meal, during a walk outside, or at book club all contribute to social wellbeing and health.
Purpose Promotes Cognitive Health
Researchers at Rush University’s Memory and Aging Project followed more than 900 older adults and measured how strongly each one agreed with statements like having “a sense of direction and purpose in life.” Those in the top 10% for purpose were about 2.4 times more likely to remain free of Alzheimer’s disease than those in the bottom 10%, independent of physical health status. In retirement, individuals have to be intentional about pursuing purpose-driven activities. Purpose can show up in a variety of ways such as caring for a plant or garden, going to a weekly class, or standing phone calls to check-in with loved ones.
Routine Reduces Stress
Predictable routines reduce the mental load of decision-making which matters most for older adults, whose cognitive reserve has less room to spare for figuring out what happens next. A supportive routine can look like waking up at the same time, meals at predictable hours, a regular walk, and seeing familiar faces. Predictability lowers stress and supports the brain.
How Senior Living Communities Promotes Healthy Aging
A senior living community can make connection, purpose, and routine sustainable without requiring ongoing effort from the person or their family. Here, residents enjoy shared meals with familiar tablemates, a day with real shape to it, and staff who notice when something’s off. See how our community can promote healthy aging. Schedule a tour.