English
Spanish
Portuguese
Arabic
Haitian Creole
Chinese (Traditional)
National Best Friend Day is June 8
“I miss my wife, my dog, my family, and having Paul as a friend is like having a brother under the same roof,” says David Dunn, senior resident of Holiday Maplewood Place. David met Paul Silva five years ago, when he thought making new friends was no longer possible.
New friendships are proven to be one of the most effective ways for seniors to improve their mental health. David and Paul have taken it upon themselves to befriend dozens of older adults and encourage companionship. According to the American Public Health Association, socialization improves mood, cognition, memory recall and physical activity.
“Friendships are about being open and honest with each other and putting each other at ease,” says Paul.
“Life should be about helping others, and Paul and I love helping everyone we can,” says David about their weekly shopping trips for the other residents. Paul passed the Resident Council President baton to David several weeks ago – which allows them to know all the residents’ needs.
