Healing Effects of Social Connections
In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General published a report on how social connections impact our health and well-being. The data, across 148 studies and with a 7.5 year follow-up, suggests “social connections increases the odds of survival by 50%.”
But how do we incorporate social connections in our lives to improve our quality of life? Feeling a sense of belonging is a human emotional need and creates meaningful connections, trust, and a sense of belonging. So where can you find a program that can address those needs while having fun?
Our Memory Ministry offers a Monday morning Memory Cafe, designed for person’s living with a dementia and a family member or friend that does just that! The high levels of social participation through music, art, poetry, drumming, dance, physical activities, and playful engagement, each session offers opportunities to enjoy shared moments of joy and improve overall well-being.
But wait, that sounds fun. How can having fun while struggling to just cope with daily life stresses while supporting my family member? The great news is the Memory Cafe, facilitated by a Certified Recreation Therapist/Certified Dementia Practitioner, offers a back door approach to actually treating the human spirit and improve quality of life for your family.
Sadly, our healthcare ignores the health benefits of participating in recreation. Somewhere along the way, our society seems to think if something feels good, it is not helpful to us. Recreation therapists are highly trained professional who not only understands recreation makes you feel better and distracts you from physical or emotional pan it actually rewires your brain. Evidence shows, participating in meaningful activities in a powerful tool for activating our bodies natural healing mechanism. The brain releases dopamine and serotonin, reducing stress, and creating new pathways to stimulate the brain pleasure centers thus promoting positive health habits and improve healthier coping skills.
Research also shows participating in recreation improves brain health and slows cognitive decline. So if you are not convinced that having fun, even difficult times, can improve you and your family member’s mood and well being, then I invite you to join us and connect with others in a safe and trusting social setting. The most common feedback from families is “I wish we had started coming soon.”
For more information about our Memory Ministry, Memory Cafe or Family and Friends Workshops, please contact Vicky at vpitner@firstumc.org