Social, Strong & Safe: How Movement Builds Connection and Wellbeing
Aging is a beautiful journey, a time marked by a treasure chest of memories and wisdom. However, it’s no secret that social isolation is a growing concern for older adults. As we age, our social circle often shrinks, and feelings of loneliness can easily creep in. While there's no single "magic bullet" for healthy aging, movement can be a powerful antidote. Movement is consistently recognized as a key component of healthy aging and maintaining vital social connections.
Why Movement?
Studies show that being physically active and socially connected is positively associated with healthy aging. Movement is more than just physical fitness; it provides significant protective benefits for both the body and mind. Being active can help ease pain and manage health problems; lower the risk of falls, enhance social interactions, maintain independence, improve sleep, reduce anxiety, and lower blood pressure. According to the Centers for Disease Control and the American College of Sports Medicine, older adults should aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity, or an equivalent and every adult should perform activities that maintain or increase muscular strength and endurance for a minimum of two days per week. That’s a recommendation! When older adults cannot do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity a week because of chronic conditions, they should be as physically active as their abilities and conditions allow. In other words, more movement is better than some, and some movement is better than none!
Engaging in physical activity can create opportunities for social interaction, and those strong social connections can motivate and support you to stay active and healthy. A study that explored the experience of older adults in a program promoting exercise and social activities found that connections and building friendships were the dominant themes that kept participants engaged. For example, participants spoke positively about making new friends at the community hub and wanting to strengthen those friendships. One of the participants noted: “The good thing is you get to connect with the same people in all the classes.” These show that the social aspect encourages and motivates individuals by making physical activity truly enjoyable
Practical Ways to Stay Socially Active
If you're struggling with social isolation, you're not alone. It can be hard to put yourself out there, but aging doesn’t mean we should stop building and nurturing new relationships.
Remember, movement doesn't have to be intense or competitive! Everyone’s fitness level is different, so focus on what feels comfortable and enjoyable for you. The main goal is to move and socialize while you’re at it.
Here are some ideas to help you find social connections:
- Group Classes:
- Yoga
- Tai Chi
- Water aerobics
- Strength training
- Cycling Clubs: Joining a cycling club offers more than just group rides: the collective energy and regular schedules help you ride more consistently, boost your mood, and open doors to new friendships.
- Dance: Movement through dancing can help express emotion, foster a sense of togetherness, and reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.
- Walking Groups: Going for a brisk walk with one or more friends is another way to build and strengthen social connections.
Every moment you spend moving and connecting provides a valuable payoff. A study highlights the powerful link between staying active and maintaining a vibrant social life, finding that older adults who engaged in regular physical activity reported significantly lower levels of loneliness and higher levels of social connectedness compared to those who were sedentary. Plus, the extra effort from socializing, even if you’re unaware of it, promotes brain cell connections, which actively help keep your thinking and memory sharp.
Move, Connect, Thrive
Movement provides opportunities for social interaction, while social support helps you stay committed. By establishing a consistent routine, choosing activities you enjoy, and joining group sessions, you will stay both active and connected.
So why not find a group or partner today and take a step towards a happier, more connected future?
