How often do you meet your mother? When was the last time you took her out for lunch? Was that quite some time ago? Then here's why spending more time with your mother is important.
Spending more time with your mother: What does the research reveal?
Loneliness affects us far more than what we can think
A study conducted in 2012 shares that as far as older adults are concerned, loneliness can be a factor that affects their quality of life. This also suggests a risk of depression, cognitive impairment and other health problems, for example, coronary artery disease. An earlier death is also another risk.
The study involved 1,600 adults. Their average age was 71 years. 23 percent of these adults who had shared that they felt lonely died within six years of the study. On the other hand, only 14 percent of those who had companionship died in the same period.
The results remained consistent despite controlling the health and socio-economic status of the participants.
Another study reveals how social relations and your health are deeply correlated
Social engagement is as crucial to extending your lifespan as losing weight in case of obesity, says a study conducted by PLOS Medicine.
Julianne Holt-Lunstad, PhD is an associate professor of Psychology at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. She says: "Our social relationships are important not only to our quality of life but also our longevity. Throughout human history, we have relied on others for survival such as protection and food, and despite modern advancements that may [help with] certain aspects of survival so that we can live more independently, it appears that our relationships nonetheless still impact odds of survival."
Loneliness and isolation is bad news for our health, so much so, it can be worse than smoking and obesity, shares Forbes Magazine. Another research also reveals that grandparents who are in the company of their grandkids are less likely to develop Alzheimer's and dementia.
Tips for spending time with your mother
Here are a few family activities that you can plan with your mother and kids.
1. Go for walks as a family or just with your mother. If you take your kids along, it can be a great bonding activity for them.
2. Cook a meal together with your mother. If your kids are interested in cooking, involve them too. You will not only learn something from your mum, but your kids will too.
3. Just talk to your mother every day, whether they stay with you or live on their own. Make sure to speak at least a couple of times in the day.
4. Take your mum out for a dinner date. At times they may want all your attention for themselves, so a quiet dinner date can provide that.
5. Participate in their day-to-day activities and make your mum part of your daily routine. Small things like saying a good morning or having breakfast together can deepen your bonding.
Sources: Simple Most, JAMA Internal Medicine, PLOS Medicine, WebMD, Cornerstone Hospice and Palliative Care
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