Stay Active at Any Age – Volunteer, Join a Club & Get Involved!

Scientific studies and anecdotal evidence suggests that engaged individuals are typically healthier and express more satisfaction with life.  In fact the NIA cites research linking social isolation and loneliness to higher risks for various physical and mental conditions including high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, anxiety, depression, Alzheimer's disease, and even death.

The journal, PLOS ((Public Library of Science) Medicine, reports that in almost 150 studies focusing on social relationships and mortality, they found loneliness may be just as bad as smoking and worse than obesity.  The studies also showed those with more developed social relationships had a “50 percent increased likelihood of survival than those whose relationships were weaker.”  Thus it appears an active social life isn’t just good fun but is good for us!

It also turns out volunteering is a great way to increase social connections, and benefits you and your family as much as it does the cause you help.  It connects you to the community in a more meaningful way and helps to improve the quality of life for those you touch.  As a volunteer, you will meet and make friends with people otherwise unknown to you, expand your network, and boost your social skills.  Also volunteering can help combat feelings of depression, increase self-confidence and give you a sense of purpose. 

Other interesting and fun ways to stay active is to join a club.  It can be something you are already passionate about or interested in learning more, and offers the opportunity to meet like-minded people. 

One example is a walking club, which can help keep you motivated and introduce you to people with similar goals.  It does not require fancy equipment or a gym, and offers the benefit of being good for your heart.  If there is not a club around you, start one by inviting family, friends and neighbors.   If you are an avid gardener, join a gardening club or volunteer at a community garden project.  If you love to play chess, join a chess club, or become more active in your church or local school, and so forth.  

Have an interested in local politics or would you like to do more to support your library or other community events?  Go to your town’s website and take a look at their calendar of upcoming meetings and events.  Moreover if there is something you want to see get done in your own neighborhood or city, start a group and undertake the service project together.

MorningStar at Jordan Creek proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living Des Moines and the surrounding area has to offer.