Use it or lose it: Seniors need to socialize to keep communication skills
[12 August 2004 - EurekAlert - From University of Michigan] Senior citizens living alone and independently in apartments should interact often with others�both friends and family members�if they want to maintain their ability to communicate, a new University of Michigan study showed. A lifestyle with organized activities seems to provide the best social opportunities for the elderly, said Deborah Keller-Cohen, a U-M professor of women's studies and linguistics. Much is known about the association between declines in cognitive function among the elderly and the ability to communicate, but little has been explored about what role social engagement might play in that relationship. ...