As you get older, your need for activity and social interaction doesn't go away. In fact, having fun is vital to your overall well-being as you age. If you're hesitant about putting yourself out there, consider the following reasons to take a look at the social events calendar in your senior apartment building and have a good time.

How Does Fun Impact Seniors?

1. Mental Health

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, staying active is essential to maintaining your overall brain health, and it can potentially reduce your risk of developing cognitive diseases such as Alzheimer's and dementia. Spending time with others and engaging in your community can also help reduce your risk of depression. Keep your mind active by taking a class or picking up a new hobby, or join your senior apartment building's book club to spend time with others while challenging your brain.

2. Personal Relationships

Maintaining connections and involvement in your community is important to fostering healthy relationships. In fact, research shows that when people lose links to their community, they develop negative perceptions of the world and feel more distrustful of people. This can have a detrimental effect on the body, triggering biological responses to perceived threats and increasing inflammation. Getting out and having fun with others can help you keep an open mind and more positive perceptions, making you feel better physically and mentally.

3. Emotional Well-Being

Who doesn't like to have fun? Whether you enjoy being mentally engaged by an intriguing lecturer, moved by a musical performance, or simply laughing until your stomach hurts, these acts trigger feelings of happiness and well-being. In fact, researchers have found that laughing triggers the release of endorphins—the same feel-good hormones produced by exercise—which can increase your pain threshold.

4. Physical Health

Having fun can improve your physical health, even if you aren't necessarily physically active. As mentioned, fun may help reduce your risk of cognitive decline and increase your pain threshold, but being socially active also reduces your risk of other health problems, including heart disease and obesity. Participate in physical activities with your neighbors, such as walking or starting a bowling league, to enjoy time together while getting some beneficial exercise.

If you’re looking for a senior apartment where you can have fun and enjoy your golden years, check out Cathedral Towers in Atlanta, GA. Their residents enjoy life in affordable, comfortable homes surrounded by manicured grounds right in the heart the city. Schedule a tour of their independent living facilities by calling (404) 231-3020, or learn more about their offerings by visiting them online.