We at Bright Side know how important family is, and we’re sharing this research with you so that you can have more mom-time in your life.
Doctors at the University of California conducted a study that followed 1,600 participants in their 60s and 70s to find out if loneliness had a more decisive influence on life expectancy than other aspects of health.
After 6 years of follow up and research, scientists discovered that loneliness had a larger impact on the elderly than they had expected. Those who declared they had company and meaningful relationships lived longer than those who expressed feeling lonely. Loneliness was driving them to death faster.
According to the study, death can also be caused by negative psychological feelings that lead to a decline in health. One of them is loneliness, not much in the sense that they don’t have anyone to talk to, but in the sense that they don’t have a meaningful connection to nurture with those that they love and care about deeply.
Put mom in your schedule, even if it’s too busy. Invite her to Sunday breakfast with the kids, ask for her advice, let her come with you to do your grocery shopping. And if you don’t live close to mom, try to visit her more often and make a schedule to give her a call and chat about your daily struggles and joys.
And if she lives alone, scientists suggest that a home in a retirement community could be the solution. These residences offer more chances for her to foster friendships, do physical activities, and thrive. So despite what others may say, you would be boosting her social life and health.
Are you ready to pick up the phone and go on a mom-date? Do you think that good psychological health is a better predictor of a long life than a healthy body? Leave your opinion in the comments!
Loneliness affects on everyone, both men and women, specially if they are a social type. But I don't think that social aspect is the most important aspect in prolonging life. There are way more crucial things like healthy diet, sports and such.
