Watching the News Has Effects on Seniors
Published: February 17, 2023
We're often asked what are the potential effects watching the news can have on senior citizens. It varies, of course, from person to person, but the overall consensus is that watching the news does affect our senior population. Here are a few possible effects:
- Anxiety and Stress: Senior citizens may feel anxious or stressed after watching the news, especially if the news reports are about negative events like crimes, natural disasters, or political tensions. Such news can trigger fear and uncertainty, which may lead to mental and physical health problems.
- Isolation: Some senior citizens may feel isolated and disconnected from society, especially if they live alone, have limited mobility, or are in poor health. Watching the news can be a way for them to stay connected with the outside world, but it can also reinforce feelings of helplessness and isolation.
- Political Engagement: Many senior citizens are politically active and interested in current events. Watching the news can help them stay informed and engaged in public affairs, which may lead to increased social participation and advocacy for issues that affect their communities.
- Cognitive Decline: Research suggests that excessive exposure to negative news can accelerate cognitive decline in older adults, leading to memory problems, depression, and decreased cognitive function.
In conclusion, watching the news can have both positive and negative effects on senior citizens, and it is essential to balance the need for information with the potential risks. It is recommended that seniors limit their exposure to negative news and seek out positive, uplifting stories to promote well-being and mental health.
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Midsouth Senior Management, SRI Management, Augusta Development and local community leaders gathered on August 4 to celebrate the groundbreaking of Silverleaf at Wilson Farms , a new Assisted Living and Memory Care community coming to Lebanon, Tennessee. The 164,000-square-foot community will feature four floors of living space, underground parking and 130 residences, including 106 Assisted Living and 24 Memory Care residences. Located on a hillside overlooking Wilson County, Silverleaf at Wilson Farms will provide a much-needed senior living option for local older adults and families. “Silverleaf at Wilson Farms represents an important investment in the seniors and families of Lebanon and Wilson County,” said Don Bishop, CEO of SRI Management . “As this area continues to grow, families need high-quality senior living options that allow their loved ones to remain close to home and connected to the community they know.” Silverleaf at Wilson Farms will be operated by SRI Management affiliate, Midsouth Senior Management. Midsouth President Rick Sweeney shared during the ceremony that the project is especially meaningful because of his family’s longstanding ties to Wilson County. “This project is personal to us because Wilson County is home,” Sweeney said. “We have watched Lebanon and the surrounding area experience tremendous growth, but senior living options have not grown at the same pace. Silverleaf will help meet that need while allowing residents to remain close to their families, churches, physicians and community connections.” The groundbreaking ceremony also included remarks from Lebanon Mayor Rick Bell and Lebanon Wilson County Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Andrea Wilke. Once open, Silverleaf at Wilson Farms is expected to create approximately 80 local jobs and contribute an estimated $2.5 million in annual wages to the area. Thank you to the project partners, local leaders, and community members who joined us to mark this exciting milestone. We look forward to watching Silverleaf at Wilson Farms take shape and eventually welcome its first residents, families and team members.

We're proud to share that SRI Management has once again been named one of Florida's Best Companies To Work For, ranking #6 among medium-sized employers statewide. This marks the fifth consecutive year we've earned this recognition from Florida Trend magazine's annual Best Companies To Work For In Florida program. Why this one means something different Being named to a list like this once is a nice moment. Being named to it five years in a row tells a different story — one about consistency, not luck. This recognition isn't based on marketing or self-promotion. It comes from an independent evaluation of workplace policies and practices, paired with a survey measuring real employee satisfaction. In other words, it reflects what it's actually like to work here, according to the people who do. "Being named to this list once is meaningful. Being named five years in a row tells you something different — it tells you this isn't a moment, it's who we are," said Don Bishop, CEO of SRI Management. "Our teams show up every day for the residents and families we serve, and this recognition belongs to them." "What makes this mean the most to me is that it's driven directly by our employees' voices," said Ryan Carlson, SVP of Human Resources. "That's not something you can manufacture — you have to earn it, year after year." A recognition built on people, not policy Florida's Best Companies To Work For program is managed by Florida Trend and the Workforce Research Group, and endorsed by the HR Florida State Council. To qualify, companies must employ at least 15 people in Florida and have been in operation for at least one year. From there, participating organizations are evaluated on workplace policies, practices, and culture — and their employees are surveyed directly to measure satisfaction. At SRI Management, we believe great senior living care starts with a great workplace. When our teams feel supported, valued, and set up to succeed, that care extends naturally to the residents and families who trust us every day. We're grateful to every team member across our communities and home office who made this fifth consecutive recognition possible. Here's to continuing to raise the bar — together. Explore the full 2026 Best Companies To Work For In Florida list at floridatrend.com/best-companies .
SRI Management is proud to congratulate Taylor Maya, Divisional Director of Clinical Services , and Jasmin Dickson, Executive Director at The Landing of Panama City Beach , on graduating from the Florida Senior Living Institute through Leadership FSLA. Taylor and Jasmin were recognized during the Florida Senior Living Association ENGAGE Conference on July 10 at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes . Leadership FSLA is a comprehensive leadership development program created specifically for professionals currently serving in FSLA-member assisted living, memory care, and independent living communities. The program is designed to strengthen individual leaders with the understanding that stronger leaders help build stronger communities. Throughout the program, participants focus on key areas of leadership development, including self-leadership, leading through change, innovation, emotional intelligence, team engagement, effective communication, meeting management, and public speaking. The program combines in-person education, community-based learning, Zoom discussions, expert speakers, mentorship, leadership assessments, and practical application. Participants also work through real-world leadership exercises, including reviewing community challenges, evaluating AHCA survey-related scenarios, identifying current opportunities within their own communities, and developing solutions that support stronger teams and better outcomes. For SRI Management, this achievement reflects the importance of investing in leaders who are committed to serving residents, supporting team members, and helping communities thrive. Taylor and Jasmin both bring dedication, professionalism, and heart to their roles, and this accomplishment is a meaningful reflection of their continued growth and leadership.


