Family more important than friends for senior health

Familiar relationships may be more important than friends in elderly social circles

Published: by Interim HealthCare in Hospice, Senior Care

Social circles are very important for elderly patients. Interacting with loved ones can help seniors avoid depression and keeps them more active than socially isolated seniors. Conversations with friends and relatives can also keep minds engaged in the face of dementia.

While friendships are important for seniors, a new study from the American Sociological Association found that family relations have a bigger impact on senior health. The researchers found that patients who listed relatives as their closest confidants had better life expectancies than those who spent most of their time with friends.

Family home care givers should focus on making social connections with their elderly loved ones and facilitate visits and conversations with other relatives. Seniors tend to be healthier and more optimistic when they feel like they have a valued place in their family and their voices are being heard.