Combating Loneliness in Seniors
According to a National Poll on Healthy Aging conducted by the University of Michigan, about 1 in 3 (34%) of adults aged 50-80 reported feeling isolated from others, while 37% reported feeling a lack of companionship some or most of the time. Feeling lonely and being socially isolated can have detrimental effects on anyone’s health, but it is a particular concern for seniors who may lose their ability to participate in normal social activities due to factors like mobility issues, lack of transportation, financial constraints, and cognitive decline. Additionally, seniors may face a higher degree of loss as friends, spouses, and siblings pass. Therefore, families should be aware of the risks of loneliness in seniors and create strategies for encouraging social connections and keeping family members connected.
Understanding the Health Effects of Loneliness and Social Isolation in Seniors
Social isolation has a wide range of effects on one’s physical and mental health. In fact, lonely seniors who have limited social interaction are more likely to be admitted to the emergency room or moved to a nursing home. Loneliness can contribute to many conditions, including high blood pressure, weakened immune system, depression and anxiety, dementia (including Alzheimer’s disease), cognitive decline, obesity, and heart disease. Moreover, elderly individuals who are lonely may get less exercise, poor sleep, and fail to eat a balanced diet. They may also participate in risky behaviors like smoking, drinking, or drug use.
Tips for Promoting Social Connections With Your Elderly Loved One
Because loneliness has very real impacts on older adults, it is important for families to create an environment where their elderly relatives can thrive. Here are some tips from the elder care professionals at New Outlook Home Care for promoting social connections for your loved one.
Prioritize Family Time
If your elderly loved one lives alone, it is essential to schedule regular visits from family members to maintain strong family connections. Weekly visits can offer time to talk, play games, take walks, and participate in other healthy activities together that will encourage your loved one to be sociable and active. Having an in-home caregiver to provide your loved one with the nursing care and housekeeping services they need on a daily basis will allow you to spend family time bonding and enjoying fun activities rather than doing chores around your loved one’s home.
Explore Local Activities for Seniors
Getting out of the house is important not only for meeting new people but also for getting a change of scenery and enjoying some time outdoors. Finding local senior-friendly activities will help you get your loved one out into the world and encourage them to socialize with their peers. Fitness classes, art classes, and hobby meetups can all be great destinations for seniors to enjoy some social time. If you’re not sure where to start looking for senior-friendly activities, the Medford Senior Center is a great resource to explore. They offer a variety of free and paid classes, meetups, and activities with regular hours Wednesday through Friday from 8:30 am – 2:30 pm with a convenient location next to Hawthorne Park just east of I-5.
Consider In-Home Senior Care Services
Even if they are experiencing loneliness and isolation, many seniors are hesitant to consider moving to an assisted living facility because they don't want to give up the comfort and familiar surroundings of home. In-home senior care services can allow your loved one to remain safe and well cared for at home while building a bond with their caregiver. Companionship is an essential part of in-home care, and the caregivers at New Outlook Home Care approach each client with compassion and friendliness to ensure their comfort and well-being.
Utilize Technology to Stay Connected
While a video call can't replace face-to-face interactions, technology can help elderly adults stay connected with friends and relatives who don't live nearby. Help your loved one learn to use video call technology on their tablet or cell phone so they can have regular calls with their grandchildren, distant friends, and anyone else who doesn't live close enough for regular in-person visits.
At New Outlook Home Care, we prioritize health and wellness for our clients by emphasizing friendly companionship among our team of caregivers. Our goal is to provide our clients with the nursing, housekeeping, and personal care they need to stay healthy and well without making them feel like a burden. It is our pleasure to provide exceptional in-home care for seniors while building lasting, meaningful relationships with our clients. Contact us today to begin discussing your loved one's in-home care needs in Medford, OR.
