PATIENT of the MONTH Kimberly & Abigail Cohen DANA-FARBER CANCER INSTITUTE
Get Out and Mingle The Importance of Socialization in Retirement As humans, we thrive on love and companionship. In our golden years, that desire and the benefits that come from it don’t go away. In fact, socialization is especially important for seniors. According to a study from the Harvard School of Public Health, a healthy social life in your 50s and 60s slows down the rates of memory loss and deterioration. It also provides many other positive benefits. Fosters Positivity After your working years come to a close and you no longer interact with coworkers, loneliness and isolation have a higher chance of settling in. Socialization is key to keeping your spirits high. So, to create and maintain positive relationships, make plans with friends and family to keep yourself busy and entertained. Reduces Stress In today’s world, stress can creep up easily. Whether it’s a busy schedule, worry about family members, fear of shifts in the economy, or unstable current events overseas that keep you on edge and anxious, get out and do something! A night out with a friend or even just time spent chatting with a family member on the phone can help to reduce stress. Increases Self-Worth Social activities such as exercise classes, group dinners, walks with a friend, or events at a clubhouse are great ways to build friendships. While friendships are a two-way street, being on the giving side can help you feel needed and increase your self-worth. To be good company is a great way to help others, which makes you feel great about yourself, too! Engagement, socialization, and creating meaningful relationships are necessary components of being happy and healthy, especially as you age. So, sign up for water aerobics, take that group pottery class, go fishing with your friends, take your neighbor up on that walk, and go to that party! You just might have a great time, and you’ll never regret interacting with others!
“My mom, Abby’s grandmother, is currently battling terminal cancer. She lives in New York, but she comes to Boston for her weekly treatments as her cancer is very aggressive and rare. Due to research at Dana-Farber, new treatments are continually being created, which has created more days and more memories that we will always cherish and be grateful for.” –Kimberly Cohen Abby has been coming to ProPT after sustaining a sprained ankle last summer. She is a competitive dancer who dances about 10 hours a day and participates in national competitions. Abby has been very determined and worked hard to rehab her ankle back to 100%! Kim has been coming to ProPT from long-standing hip and ankle issues. She is always a joy to work with and is incredibly committed to success both in the clinic and at home. For both Abby and Kim’s determination and sense of joy, they are co-patients of the month!
2 www.proptinc.com • 508-528-6100
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