Studies have shown that spending time with your mother can significantly contribute to an increase in her lifespan.
This discovery is backed by a multitude of research findings, pointing towards the impact that social interactions and family bonds have on the health and well-being of your mother, particularly in her later stages of life.
Loneliness and the power of companionship
“Loneliness and the feeling of being unwanted is the most terrible poverty.” – Mother Teresa
A 2011 research study showed that frequent interactions with loved ones, especially your mother, can substantially extend their lifespan. The study brings to life that isolation is key to the elimination of a deteriorating life quality for a senior, leading to an increased risk of depression, cognitive impairment, and health issues like coronary artery disease. It might even increase the pace of death.
The research study had a total of 1,604 adults, with the average age of participants being in their early 70s, it found that 23% of participants who felt lonely passed away within six years of the study, compared to just 14% percent of those who enjoyed companionship. These results, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, remained constant even after adjusting for health and socioeconomic status.
According to another research report by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, concluded that individuals who have robust social ties are likely to enjoy a longer and healthier life. This report, which reviewed 148 studies, found that those lacking social connections have a 50% higher risk of dying prematurely compared to those with stronger social bonds.
Julianne Holt-Lunstad, an associate professor of Psychology at Brigham Young University and the study’s author, stated, “Our social relationships are not only significant to our quality of life, but also to our longevity.” According to her, despite modern advancements facilitating independent living, our relationships continue to influence our survival odds.
The effects of loneliness and social isolation
Research has constantly shown that loneliness and social isolation are exceedingly harmful to our health, posing an even greater health risk than smoking or obesity. laughter, an aspect of social bonding has been proven to enhance immunity, decrease blood pressure, and stimulate blood flow and mental activity.
Therefore, it’s safe to say that planning a couple of jokes before visiting your mother could be more beneficial than you might think!
Spending time with your parents
Spending time with your parents, in this case your mother, can also have advantages for you. The wisdom passed down through conversations can be said through generations is priceless; no one understands you like your parents.
Grandparents can be crucial when it comes to childcare, and research shows that grandparents who babysit are less likely to develop Alzheimer’s and dementia. Moreover, kids love spending time with their grandparents. It’s a win-win situation!
Moreover, mothers, with their unique understanding of their children, can guide them through life’s challenges, making them feel loved, heard, and valued. This can have a profound impact on a child’s self-esteem and overall mental well-being. So, the importance of a mother’s role in a child’s life cannot be overstated. It’s truly invaluable.
The bottom line
Ultimately, spending more time with elderly family members, especially our mothers, benefits everyone. It can increase their lifespan and improve their quality of life, and we can learn valuable lessons and wisdom from their life experiences.
So, plan a dinner with your mom, share a few jokes, and cherish the time spent with her. After all, a mother’s love is irreplaceable, and as research suggests, our love can play a significant role in their health and lifespan. Let’s make the most of it!
