Most adults socialise on a daily basis without really thinking about it. We interact at work, while shopping, and with family in the home. However, for seniors or those living with disability, regular opportunities for social interaction can be difficult to come by. Friend circles can diminish, and people can become housebound due to injuries, illness or disability. 

Research suggests that loneliness and social isolation can cause a decline in health in many ways. Companionship is extremely important to maintain a good quality of life. Here are some of the benefits of companionship.

In 2013, the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences showed that when mental and physical health conditions were factored out, the lack of social contact continued to lead to early death among 6,500 men and women tracked over a seven-year period. If loneliness can lead to a decline in health, it stands to reason that social interaction can lead to a longer life. 

Fortunately, finding ways to form companionship to fight the effects of isolation has never been easier. Platforms like Home Care Heroes connect those who need a helping hand to people within the community who can provide assistance, whether it’s picking up medication, helping with the house work or attending an event.

One of the reasons socialising can lead to a longer life is that it seems to improve cognitive functioning. While puzzles and games can also improve mental abilities, talking with another person for just 10 minutes can help improve your memory according to a study from the University of Michigan.  

Those who suffer from social isolation are more likely to develop heart disease and have a stroke. A 2016 study found that poor social relationships were associated with a 29% increase in risk of coronary heart disease and a 32% increase in risk of stroke. To drive home the importance of companionship, these statistics put social isolation on par with smoking and obesity as risk factors for heart disease. 

There are some studies that suggest that companionship can help patients recover from surgeries faster. Companionship has shown to reduce stress which in turn can heal patients heal faster. Having friends visit people in hospital could help throughout post recovery. 

For those who are ageing, or need help with every day activities, companionship can be invaluable. Certain tasks, or the event of an emergency, can be stressful for vulnerable people who might not know what they can do. Having strong social relationships can help with this stress. Companionship can provide people with a sense of security and some peace of mind for families. 

Seniors, and those living with disability want to maintain their independence, live in their own home and live a full life. Companionship is a way for people to achieve these things while living safely.