Social interaction is a fundamental human need that enhances overall well-being and cognitive health, as evidenced by research showing that meaningful connections and social engagement contribute to better mental fitness, especially as we age, prompting organizations like the Global Council on Brain Health to recommend maintaining an active social life.
1. Pay attention to the good! Keep fostering the social interactions and connections that you find most enjoyable.
2. Maintain a close social network of supportive neighbors, relatives, or friends for meaningful discussions beyond small talk. Focus on camaraderie, not group size—value mutual importance and shared ideas, thoughts, and concerns.
3. You should have a particular person with whom you can contact on a regular basis (monthly is a good objective), such as your spouse or a trusted friend. A confidante who is trustworthy and dependable is what you desire in your connection; you want someone you can rely on.
4. Being married can boost cognitive wellness, but other connections matter too. Studies show many bereaved, divorced, or never-married individuals have strong support systems.
5. Talk to friends, family, or neighbors occasionally (e.g., monthly). Connect face-to-face, by phone, email, or social media. The connection matters more than the method.
6. Help others stay connected. Supporting others, formally or informally, boosts cognitive health. Encourage interaction by visiting lonely friends, shopping together, or cooking with them.
7. Don't forget young people! Maintain connections across ages. Share skills like cooking, gardening, or investing with younger generations. Stay in touch with grandkids or volunteer at schools or community centers.
8. When you're out and about, try to meet new individuals. If you give yourself the chance, this may occur in the course of daily living, whether it's on shop runs or strolls in the park.
9. Try new clubs, classes, political organization, sinterest groups, religious meetings, or cooking lessons to challenge yourself and get sociable and active at the same time.
10. If you are experiencing loneliness, alter your situation by establishing a new relationship or looking for new ways to interact with others.
11. Seek assistance from someone and allow them to help you establish new relationships if you are having trouble interacting with others (for example, getting about).
12. Seek assistance from specialists if you are feeling alone and have no one nearby to assist you in interacting socially. Local religious leaders, drop-in facilities, and phone hotlines are a few examples.
13. If socially engaged, try new activities. Join or start a group for a shared interest not yet in your area, like a gardening club or exercise group.
14. Take small steps to connect with others if it's difficult. Smile at someone daily, even a stranger or cashier. Simple acts like asking how they are or holding a door open can foster connection.
15. Reconnect with old relationships. Contact neighbors or acquaintances you haven't seen in a while via phone, email, card, or social media.