Many older adults in the United States end up living alone and facing isolation, which poses several physical, emotional, and cognitive health risks. However, there are a few creative ways family members can prevent isolation.
Provide Transportation
Older adults who no longer have the mental or physical capabilities needed to drive a vehicle are likely to become isolated. Family members who live near their older loved ones might consider taking them shopping or on outings. If your loved one lives in a city that offers public transportation, he or she might enjoy the gift of a paid bus or train pass.
Older adults are susceptible to an array of age-related health issues that can impact their mobility levels and overall independence. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of senior care families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
Foster a Sense of Purpose
Seniors who have a favorite pastime or hobby are less likely to become bored, lonely, or depressed when living alone. Completing projects provides seniors with a sense of pride and accomplishment, and some activities naturally encourage social participation. Explore what your loved one’s community has to offer. Having indoor plants or pets to care for also enables older adults to feel needed.
Create a Positive Self-Image
Aging adults may avoid social interaction due to being self-conscious about the way they look. Boost your loved one’s self-esteem by offering praise and compliments. Your loved one might enjoy shopping for new clothes, having his or her hair done, or getting a manicure. If being overweight is an issue, help your loved one come up with a plan to shed excess pounds and have fun in the process.
Regular socialization can also help seniors stave off isolation and loneliness. For families living in Opelika, 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 Home Care Assistance, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home.
Promote Sensory Testing
Some seniors avoid social situations due to hearing loss or impaired vision. Make sure your loved one has his or her hearing and vision checked. Help your loved one obtain hearing aids or glasses if needed. Modern phones have volume adjustments that enable seniors with hearing impairment to participate in conversations.
Use Communication Technologies
Older adults today are becoming more and more interested in learning how to use computers and mobile devices. If your loved one is unable to leave the house, he or she can still keep in touch with family members or friends by using upgraded devices. If you live far away, your loved one may enjoy a live video conversation via a mobile device, laptop, or desktop computer.
Encourage Joining a Cause
Many churches and community centers engage in local causes that benefit others. Seniors might consider joining a group that interests them, which provides the chance to become more social.
Hiring a professional caregiver is one of the best ways to ensure your loved one receives regular social and mental stimulation to prevent loneliness and isolation. In Opelika, homecare services agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Home Care Assistance, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy. Call one of our dedicated Care Managers today at (334) 744-7100 to learn about the high quality of our in-home care services.