Why is socialization and getting out and doing things important for the elderly living in assistant living?

Answer 1

Because thats a human need...

Answer 2

There is one other critical difference between the elderly and younger folks besides physical appearance and that is prospective time horizon. We tend to operate out of pure self interest, in which case when the length of our future existence is highly uncertain, our motivation to do things for our own benefit can disappear. This is why the elderly are the highest risk group for depression.
People are built as social beings. Contrary to what we are told, we are not narcissistic self absorbed/self interested egomaniacs. If we are, our imminent death would cause us to give up since why bother?
Anyhow, getting out and doing things allows the elderly to form the social bonds that we are all wired for. We personally may have an uncertain future, but other members of our group, and the group as a whole, which we care about, will continue and we personally can contribute to this. This is also one of the reasons why people who have kids, and those who are married and are close to these others tend to live longer than those who are alone.

Answer 3

The first thing you need to realize is that there is no difference between the elderly and the rest of us when it comes to spirit - it's only their body that's beginning to give out on them.

So put yourself into their position - if you had a disability that required assisted living, would you be content to give up all your independance and go on day after day without anything to look forward to - just "living" in the most basic sense?

How long do you think you could last that way before giving up on life?

Something to think about....

Answer 4

Because while most of the people in assisted living are elderly, many of them still get around real well and are still full of life and want to stay active. You can't just stick them somewhere and expect them to be happy. In assisted living places they take the patients that can go, out to shop, eat, the zoo, museum,etc. It stimulates their mind and makes them feel more alive.They will stay happy longer and in many cases live longer as well.

Answer 5

To keep their brain's synaptic responses fresh and 'exercised' with experiences outside of the same four walls of their quarters... not to mention the fresh air and the opportunity to meet friends.