{"id":66600,"date":"2023-12-11T06:00:00","date_gmt":"2023-12-11T14:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.kentreporter.com\/local-marketplace\/holiday-joy-keeping-your-loved-ones-connected-through-socialization\/"},"modified":"2023-12-11T06:00:00","modified_gmt":"2023-12-11T14:00:00","slug":"holiday-joy-keeping-your-loved-ones-connected-through-socialization","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.kentreporter.com\/local-marketplace\/holiday-joy-keeping-your-loved-ones-connected-through-socialization\/","title":{"rendered":"Holiday Joy: Keeping your loved ones connected through socialization"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\t\t\t\t
The holidays are here again and present us with the perfect opportunity to reflect on the importance of socialization and connecting with family and friends. For older adults, maintaining an active and engaging social life is crucial for overall health and wellness.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t
In recent years, the Surgeon General<\/a> has shed light on the “epidemic of loneliness and isolation” among older adults. Loneliness not only affects mental and emotional health but, surprisingly, also impacts the body physically. The issue of isolation highlights just how important social connection really is – especially during the holiday season when loneliness can feel overwhelming.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t Socialization is more than just “hanging out” with others; it’s at the core of senior well-being. Social interactions<\/a> with family and friends combat feelings of isolation and depression, improve cognitive functioning and bring about sheer happiness.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t