According to a University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) study, over 40% of seniors regularly experience feelings of loneliness. Yet, just because seniors are entering into their golden years, does not always mean they have to live with feelings of loneliness. The following will look at five easy ideas to help quell loneliness in seniors.
- Enlist the help of a home health aide.
A home health aide is one of the best ways to help provide companionship to an aging loved one. With specialized training, aides can act as company to your loved one. They also can assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), health monitoring, and even light errands.
- Get family and friends involved.
In order to combat loneliness, it’s important to schedule time with loved ones. Strong social connections can reduce health problems such as high blood pressure and depression. Thus, for seniors, a scheduled time with friends and family can aid in quelling feelings of isolation. This could be a monthly dinner, weekly stroll through the park, or even a daily zoom call!
- Join a community project.
Another great way to engage in social activities is to join a community project. This gives the senior citizen the opportunity to get out of the house and spend time with other like minded individuals. There are a plethora of services and community groups to choose from. It could be a bible study, local gardening club, bowling team, etc.
- Get seniors connected on the internet.
If your loved one has mobility issues, you can always use the power of the internet. An online video chat or message means the world to those who feel isolated. Caregivers can get creative in the ways to connect aging loved ones to their community. This can be an online monopoly game, a virtual bridge tournament, or bi-coastal game of scrabble!
- Try something new.
For seniors, sometimes the best thing to quell feelings of loneliness is a break from monotony. A new hobby or pastime can create this opportunity for new joy. Time spent learning a new instrument or trying a new craft will foster a space of development, growth, and inspiration. These feelings can break apart the isolated feelings that can come from day to day malaise. Even more so, a new hobby often brings new people who also are in that community!
If your loved one is in need of some help, contact a home health aide at Expicare Nursing today!