Many aging adults easily become bored as they age due to a lack of fun activities to engage in. After retirement, you may lose connection with many of your old friends and that can give room to feelings of loneliness and boredom. A great way to establish new connections is having someone to share your thoughts and feelings with. There are lots of other perks that come with having a pen pal, who could be of any age or location. Below are some of the reasons why writing pen pals are great for aging adults in retirement:
Curb Loneliness
Having someone to share your thoughts with can help reduce the risk of going through social isolation as an adult in retirement. While you may get a chance to be with your old friends and family members once in a while, you can always talk to a reliable friend every day by sending and writing letters and emails. The excitement that comes from receiving a new letter from your pen pal can elevate your mood at any time of the day. Letters from your pen pal can help to curb feelings of loneliness and isolation as you will have something exciting to look forward to.
Improve Communication Skill
Writing and reading letters from your pen pals can help to improve your communication and social skills. If you have difficulties talking, writing is a good way to express your thoughts and feelings effectively and comfortably. Writing is a means of communication that’s easier for older adults that are struggling with oral language.
Boost Self-Confidence
Being able to make new friends and communicate with them is a great way to boost your self-confidence. Many aging adults experience a lack of confidence after retiring which can make increase feelings of intimidation when trying to make new friends. However, sharing your feelings with a pen pal can help you feel a level of self-satisfaction which can help to boost your self-confidence in return. Getting a positive response from your pen pal is another factor that can help to boost your self-confidence.
Enhance Cognitive Health
Reading is an effective way to exercise the brain by challenging the brain function while writing is an art that can also help to work the brain to boost cognitive health. Many aging adults suffer from serious cognitive problems like dementia. Exercising the brain by reading and writing can help to keep your mind sharp and safe while reducing signs and development of cognitive concerns.
Boost Memory
Asides from reducing the risk of cognitive problems, writing and reading letters from your pen pal can help to tackle forgetfulness. Many aging adults experience forgetfulness as they age, which could be an early sign of memory loss. Writing can help to boost your memory as it challenges your brain to improve its capabilities. Constant reading and writing can help to improve the function of the brain through constant reminders of the stories your pen pal has shared with you in the past. This can also help to improve your ability to communicate properly and effectively with your pen pal.
Looking for the perfect independent living community for retirement? Consider moving to the Conservatory At Alden Bridge. Our retirement community offers several senior wellness programs that allow you to connect with other residents and make new friends. Check out our floor plans here and feel free to contact us if you have questions.
