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Loneliness and Social Isolation in Seniors: A Strategic Approach

loneliness-and-social-isolation-in-seniors-a-strategic-approach

Loneliness and isolation among seniors have long been a concern and have heightened dramatically due to the current COVID-19 pandemic. With this new social reality, friends, family, and service providers must comprehend the experiences of seniors and strive to reduce their adverse effects.

Loneliness and social isolation affect roughly 30% of older persons aged 65 and above, with 5% reporting feeling lonely frequently or constantly. Loneliness and social isolation can have a long-term adverse impact on the overall health of older people, which includes high blood pressure, heart disease, anxiety, depression, cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s disease, and weakened immune system.

So how can we address this issue? As a home care provider in California, we compiled some tips for you.

  • Make a Timetable

    Even if it is challenging, establishing a routine in one’s daily life provides a sense of stability and purpose. Set your alarm to begin the day at a reasonable hour and with specified goals or activities for the day. When preparing the schedule, always include something fun and engaging and involve someone else’s company, too!

  • Get a Pet

    It has been proven that having a pet can help people feel less lonely as pets give social support and company to their owners. According to studies, pet attachment or animal-assisted therapy positively impacts the emotional well-being of a person, especially seniors. A caregiver can assist with pet care and upkeep so that your senior loved one can experience the total benefits of having a pet without too much hassle and stress.

  • Make New Acquaintances

    Another strategy to combat isolation is to make it easier for people to interact with people. Joining a library society, a sports venue, or a knitting group allows seniors to pursue their passions with like-minded colleagues. Adults enjoying activities can benefit from caregivers’ escort and companionship. They can also join local volunteering activities where they can make new friends.

  • Utilize Technology

    In this fast-paced digital world, older folks often feel left behind. Figure out ways for elders to learn technology-related skills, such as how to use or correspond to an email or how to use social media. Seniors who underwent a 3-week computer training course and online lesson showed a significant reduction in loneliness. Caregivers can also provide continuing support in this new situation.

Home Caregivers Management, Inc. provides top-notch home care service in Ventura, California. We have a team of care professionals who can accompany and assist your seniors at home, reducing loneliness and preventing isolation. If you want to learn more about how we can help you, feel free to reach out to us.

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