The benefits of socializing matter more as we age, especially in places like assisted living, where connection is built. At Asbury Place Steadman Hill in Kingsport, Tennessee, we see what happens when people have others to talk to, laugh with, and share their days with. It’s simple. Being around people who care can lift a person’s spirit. And for seniors, that’s not just nice—it’s important.
Growing older can bring big changes. Some of those changes, like retirement or moving closer to family, are good. However, others, like losing a spouse, being unable to drive, or seeing friends less, can lead to loneliness. That kind of loneliness isn’t just sad. It can affect someone’s health.
Why Social Interaction Gets More Important as We Age
Let’s be honest, making new friends or staying social gets harder later in life. That’s especially true for older adults living alone. Maybe getting out of the house feels tough. Or maybe there aren’t as many neighbors to wave at anymore. Over time, that quiet can start to feel too quiet.
But people need people. It doesn’t have to be a crowd. Even one friendly face each day can make a big difference. Studies show that seniors who feel lonely are more likely to face health issues like depression, memory loss, or heart disease.
“Social isolation increases the risk of dementia by 50%.” – CDC
At Asbury Place Steadman Hill, our residents don’t have to worry about being alone. That’s one of the best things about living in a community. You can have as much quiet time as you want, but if you’re in the mood to chat, laugh, or play a game, someone’s always around.
Social Benefits You’ll Only Find in a Community Like Ours
Built-in Friends and Shared Spaces
You don’t have to go far in assisted living to find friendly faces. Meals are shared in a dining room, not alone at a kitchen table. Common areas like lounges and gardens give people a place to talk, relax, and enjoy the company of others.
You’d be surprised how many friendships start over coffee or a jigsaw puzzle.
Activities That Bring People Together
Socializing isn’t about big parties. It’s the small moments that matter. We offer a full calendar of activities that give residents something to look forward to every day. Here are a few things you might see at Asbury Place Steadman Hill:
- Bingo and card games
- Music and sing-alongs
- Group walks
- Movie nights
- Prayer groups
- Arts and crafts
- Gardening clubs
People can join in as little or as much as they want. There’s no pressure. But there’s always something happening.
Events and Outings That Feel Special
We also celebrate holidays, birthdays, and special days in fun ways, not forced. And yes, we get out of the building too. Trips to local parks, favorite restaurants, or seasonal events around Kingsport help everyone feel connected to the broader community.
Emotional Health Matters Too
Socializing doesn’t just pass the time. It helps people stay emotionally well.
Having regular conversations, hearing laughter, and sharing a meal help reduce stress. They also improve sleep, bring back a sense of purpose, and remind people that their stories, jokes, and presence still matter.
At Asbury Place, we support residents with the 7 Dimensions of Wellness. It’s not just about physical health. It also includes:
- Emotional – feeling heard and supported
- Social – staying engaged with others
- Spiritual – connecting to beliefs or practices
- Intellectual – keeping the brain active
- Environmental – feeling comfortable and safe
- Occupational – staying involved in meaningful activities
- Physical – staying strong and mobile
- Social activities support nearly all of those areas.
How Assisted Living Removes the Barriers
Getting to a senior center or social event at home can be a lot. Transportation, health concerns, or just feeling nervous can keep people isolated.
In assisted living, those hurdles get smaller. There’s no need to drive. Someone’s always nearby to lend a hand. Since the activities happen in the same building where residents live, it’s easier for them to join on their terms.
Staff are also trained to gently encourage participation. We notice when someone hasn’t been out much and check in. Sometimes, all it takes is a friendly nudge to help someone step back into community life.
What Families Can Do to Help
Staying social isn’t something seniors should have to figure out alone. Families can play a big part in keeping their loved ones connected. Here are a few simple ways:
- Visit regularly or call often
- Encourage your loved one to try new activities
- Ask what social events they enjoy
- Attend community events with them
- Share stories or photos from the past—it’s a great way to start conversations
Little things matter. Even a 10-minute phone call or a quick walk around the courtyard can brighten someone’s day.
See the Difference for Yourself
We don’t just talk about the benefits of socializing; we see them every day in our residents. A new smile, a louder laugh, a longer story shared over lunch, these are the real signs of a full life.
And while everyone is different, one thing stays the same: being around others feels good.
At Asbury Place Steadman Hill, we make connections easy. Social wellness is part of how we support the whole person, from their health to their heart.
If you’re wondering if assisted living in Kingsport could help your loved one feel less alone, come visit us. Walk through the halls, talk to the people who live here, and see what friendship looks like at any age.
Located in Kingsport, TN, Asbury Place Steadman Hill offers assisted living for seniors ready for more connection and support.