About 45 percent of adults say they plan to travel for the holidays, per The Vacationer.

With multiple generations getting together for holiday meals, gift exchanges and quality time, these annual gatherings present an opportunity to broach sensitive but important topics with your aging loved ones. By communicating with them and knowing their wishes, you can help them plan for their future.

More Americans are living longer, with the number of people older than 65 projected to increase to more than 80 million by 2040. As this population reaches retirement age, the risk of social isolation substantially increases – along with its negative effects.

Keeping older adults socially engaged is an important part of their overall well-being. Older people are at high risk for social isolation as age, disease, and loss rob them of their social connections. In addition to a greater feeling of loneliness, diminishing social interactions can leave older adults vulnerable to developing diseases like dementia and other chronic illnesses.

For caregivers, deciding what is best for their senior loved ones can feel overwhelming. Given the benefits of fostering social interactions among seniors as they age, many caregivers might consider prioritizing opportunities to keep their aging loved ones socially active and connected.

Continue reading to learn more about the benefits of social connection, the risk of loneliness, and tips for keeping your family member connected as they age.

The population of seniors over 65 is expected to increase exponentially over the next decade. A study by the Office of Policy Development and Research exposed the country’s unpreparedness for housing the aged population. America has three major housing issues for seniors: affordability, physical accessibility, and access to medical care and other services. There is a need for creative solutions to housing.

Innovative long-term care housing for seniors tries to solve these problems. These new potential living arrangements for seniors may provide older people with the care, protection, and resources they need to age peacefully.

Memory care is specialized care for patients living with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other conditions that cause memory loss. Hospitals and nursing homes may have memory care units or a separate entity dedicated to this service. Memory care provides seniors with meals, opportunities to socialize, mentally stimulating activities, and support for their caregivers.

Independent living communities are for healthy, active older adults. Assisted living facilities suit those who need help with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, preparing meals, and medication management. Skilled nursing facilities provide care to individuals with significant medical conditions.

Yet, as people age, the type and level of care they need often change. Older adults who start in one kind of community often must move to another facility that can support their evolving needs. Relocating can be stressful, as individuals leave their friends to start over in an unfamiliar environment, often while their autonomy and access to recreation diminishes.

Assisted living facilities and nursing homes are long-term housing and care options for older adults. Although people sometimes use the terms assisted living and nursing home synonymously, they are distinct.