When a senior is diagnosed with dementia, their social life is often one of the first things to decline. Many people forget that humans are social beings who need friends and social interaction regardless of their mental condition. Whether your loved one visits with friends or relies on a trusted Hot Springs caregiver for companionship, socialization offers numerous benefits to seniors with dementia.

Preserves Memory Retention

Research has found that seniors who have a large social network preserve more memory even after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. A 2004 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association theorizes that it helps to reduce dementia and memory-related symptoms by keeping the brain active.

Reduces Risk of Depression

Seniors with dementia often live with other mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety. Depression can be particularly difficult for a person with dementia to fight without help. A 2008 study by Dr. Lisa F. Berkman of Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that even minor social engagement could prevent seniors from developing depression.

Boosts Quality of Life

Seniors with dementia tend to lead a generally happier and healthier life when they have friends. For example, a study by Dr. Marie-Jeanne Kergoat at the University of Montreal found that seniors were more likely to eat filling and nutritious meals and exercise more often when they did these activities in the company of a friend or loved one.

Prevents Physical Decline

A lack of socialization has been linked to an increase in high blood pressure and other risk factors for cardiovascular disease and strokes. Interacting with friends, dementia and Hot Springs Alzheimer’s caregivers, and family members prevents seniors from experiencing the stress and depression that can seriously impact physical health and wellbeing.

Promotes Cognitive Function

A 2006 study conducted by the Rush University Medical Center discovered that social interaction with close friends or family members makes the brain function more effectively. This preserves and promotes healthy cognitive function and helps seniors to continue thinking logically even when their brains are affected by dementia.

You can further promote emotional, mental, and physical wellbeing for your loved one with help from Home Care Assistance of Little Rock Metro. We provide compassionate Hot Springs home care that encourages seniors with dementia to live full active lives. We accomplish this by incorporating our proprietary Cognitive Therapeutics Method (CTM) in your loved one’s care plan. CTM is an activities-based program that stimulated mental function, delays memory loss, exercises speech, and promotes self-esteem. Learn more about CTM and our comprehensive dementia home care when you call (501) 764-1312 today.