The WOW Guide: The Importance of Getting Out and About.
As we grow older, maintaining an active social life and staying connected with others can become more challenging, but our WOW guide is set to change that.
The WOW Guide: The Importance of Getting Out and About.
As we grow older, maintaining an active social life and staying connected with others can become more challenging, but it’s also more important than ever. For older adults, especially those living with dementia, socialising and cognitive stimulation play a vital role in promoting mental health and overall wellbeing. With the autumn settling in and days growing shorter, it’s a perfect time to explore the local activities and services that are available in Wetherby and North Leeds to keep older adults connected and stimulated. This is where our WOW guide is an invaluable resource.
Why Socialising Matters
Staying socially active is not just about avoiding loneliness; it’s essential for maintaining mental health and cognitive function. For older adults, engaging in regular social activities can help stave off feelings of isolation, improve mood, and even reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
According to research from Age UK, older adults who engage in regular social activities have a 26% reduced risk of developing dementia compared to those who are socially isolated. Social interaction is linked to improved cognitive function and mental health, making it a critical component in the overall wellbeing of older adults.
Cognitive Stimulation and Dementia
According to NICE guidelines, cognitive stimulation therapy is recommended for people with mild to moderate dementia. It has been shown to improve cognitive function, memory, and communication, as well as enhance overall quality of life.
NICE highlights that activities such as puzzles, reminiscence, and social interaction are key to maintaining mental stimulation and cognitive health in those living with dementia.
Activities to Support Wellbeing
Here in Wetherby and North Leeds, we are so fortunate to have many dementia-friendly services and activities designed to provide social opportunities and cognitive engagement for older adults which improve wellbeing. Let’s take a look at a few specific examples from the What’s On Where (WOW) guide:
- Memory Drop-In at Morrisons Café (Wetherby, third Tuesday of the month, 12pm – 1:30pm): This welcoming space provides a fantastic opportunity for people with dementia and their families to connect with others. Social gatherings like this encourage conversation and reminiscence, stimulating the mind and promoting a sense of belonging.
- Companionship Café (St James Church Rooms, first Tuesday of the month, 2pm – 4pm): This event is perfect for those looking to share a friendly chat over a cup of tea. Brought to you by Home Instead Wetherby, here is music, laughter and lots of entertainment.
- Home Instead Chairobics (Boston Spa Village Hall, Tuesdays at 10am, St James Church Rooms, Thursdays at 10:30am): This gentle exercise class not only promotes physical wellbeing but also encourages social interaction. Regular movement combined with a group setting helps boost both mood and mental clarity, which is essential for maintaining cognitive health.
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Download the Full Guide
If you or a loved one could benefit from local services that offer social engagement and cognitive stimulation, please do explore the full range of options in our WOW guide.
Together, we can help older adults stay connected and thrive in their communities, no matter their age or cognitive condition.