Persistent loneliness is a big concern for many seniors, and it can have far-reaching consequences. Some side effects of long-term isolation include anxiety, depression, inadequate sleep, and high blood pressure. If you suspect your senior loved one is lonely, use the following tips to bring a little happiness into his or her life.
Engage in Activities Together
Lonely seniors often have too much time to think about what they’ve lost. Constantly thinking about the past can become a self-perpetuating cycle of sadness. Depressive thoughts impact energy, enthusiasm, and emotional health.
If your loved one seems gloomy, try finding activities to share with him or her. Simply encouraging your loved one to develop a hobby or interest may not be enough. Participating in activities together could encourage your loved one to engage in a new pursuit. Seniors with limited mobility may enjoy playing a new card game or doing crossword puzzles, while older adults who can navigate the great outdoors may appreciate birdwatching and shuffleboard.
Loneliness isn’t the only age-related issue older adults are susceptible to. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality homecare. Trust Assisting Hands Home Care to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably.
Brighten the Day with Old Memories
Some seniors spend a lot of time thinking about the past. When you’re busy, it’s easy to smile and nod at these stories instead of properly listening to them. Every so often, stop, sit down, and truly listen to your loved one.
Many seniors retain detailed memories of their early years, even if they’re experiencing cognitive decline. When your loved one is in the mood to chat about his or her youth, try asking questions. Take an old photo album out of storage and see if it jogs your loved one’s memory. A trip down memory lane is sure to make your loved one smile.
Regular socialization can help your loved one recall memories and slow the progression of cognitive decline. For families living in Columbia, respite care can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At Assisting Hands Home Care, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home.
Use the Power of Technology
Many lonely seniors would be less isolated if they knew how to use modern technology. Help your loved one learn how to use Skype, which can connect him or her with friends and relatives living all around the world. Online communication tools are relatively easy to use. Once your loved one has mastered these tools, he or she will have a whole new way of connecting with others.
Find a Community
Many seniors feel isolated because their friends and family members have moved away. Help your loved one make new friends by finding existing communities that might interest him or her.
Seniors who love exercising may enjoy making new friends at weekly water aerobics classes. If a religious senior isn’t already involved in a local church, mosque, or temple, a family caregiver can find one that’s welcoming to older members. Older adults may also enjoy participating in clubs, which range from senior golf leagues to local chapters of women’s clubs.
Hiring professional caregivers is one of the best ways to help older adults prevent loneliness and enjoy a high quality of life. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional senior home care. Columbia, MD, Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life. Call one of our dedicated Care Managers today to learn about the high quality of our in-home care services.
