Why is socialization especially important for older adults?
People are social in all stages of life. In childhood, we learn to play with others and forge friendships. Later, we travel in groups, whether it is a group of friends from school, a bowling league, a card group or church congregation. The innate desire to be social does not fade over time; however, health or living circumstances may inhibit socialization, causing the older adult to experience loneliness. As we grow older, spouses pass away, children move on, and long-time friends are sometimes faced with illness or new living arrangements. A service like adult day care can provide that innate need for socialization.
