Avoiding Isolation is the Key for Seniors to Have a Happy Life
Senior Helpers Has Eight Tips For You
Older adults need to prevent loneliness and social isolation. If they don't....it can lead to poor health, an increased number of falls and dementia.
"This issue is certainly worth addressing," said Director of Operations Steve Pearl, at Northbrook-based Senior Helpers serving the north and northwest suburbs to the Wisconsin border. "Unfortunately, isolation among seniors is quite common. America's population is aging, which will result in more people becoming isolated. Family and friends need to promote social integration among the older population."
Here are eight tips you can use so seniors can connect with other people:
Have a hearing and vision test.
Seniors may be isolated because they don't hear or see as well as they should. Undiagnosed or untreated hearing problems make it difficult to communicate with others. Make sure the senior has a vision test and a current eyeglass prescription, if needed.
All seniors need a purpose
Does the senior have a hobby, do volunteer work at a food pantry or their church or make sweaters for drug addicted babies? Some seniors play bridge, volunteer at a dog shelter or paint for enjoyment. Find a purpose in life.
Give a senior a pet
The art of nurturing a dog or cat relieves feelings of social isolation. Studies have shown that pet owners who have a companion tend to be healthier. Pets show love to their owners.
Dine with others
It is important for seniors to share a meal with other people whenever it is possible. In senior living buildings, it is possible everyday. If the senior lives independently, share meals at church events or local senior centers.
Solve the transportation problem
When adequate transportation doesn't exist, there is social isolation. Check to see if your city, town or village has arrangements with the local taxi company for discount rides. Also, Uber car service is reliable so seniors can go where they need to be.
Introduce the senior to technology
Learn how to use the computer for emailing friends and family or playing games. You may even want to teach them how to text on their phone. With technology.... seniors will never be truly alone again.
Support seniors who have lost a spouse
A senior who has lost a spouse after decades of living together is totally lost. Provide extra emotional and social support. Spend time with them by going to the movies, to a restaurant or letting them visit with your family.
Hugs are wonderful
Hand holding and hugs feel a sense of well being. Give friendly hugs as your greeting or farewell.
If you would like to learn how Senior Helpers In-home Caregivers can help provide companionship to avoid isolationism please contact Steve Pearl at Senior Helpers: 847-564-7500 or email him at: spearl@seniorhelpers.com.
This Senior Helpers office is the Alzheimer's Foundation of America Cares Affiliate office for all of Chicagoland and has established an Alzheimer's/Dementia/Parkinsons Care Resource Center for the community. For the past five years, this office has been ranked as one of the Top Home Care Agencies in America.