Between aging in place and spending more time at home due to health issues or other factors, like physical limitations, seniors may find that they’re also spending more time alone. For some that might not be a significant hardship. Loneliness is a big concern for seniors because it can lead to other mental health struggles, like depression. Home care services can help family caregivers find the right options for their aging adults.
Create Opportunities for Socialization
When seniors don’t have the opportunities that they need for socialization, they’re less likely to reach out to people. There are a lot of contributing factors, of course, but there are some ways that family caregivers can help to create opportunities for more socializing to occur.
Volunteering is one option, especially if seniors are interested in continuing to contribute to their community in meaningful ways. Joining a club or organization can also be helpful. Fitness classes, either at a gym or a community center, helps with physical activity, too.
Make Regular Visits from Family and Friends Easy
Seniors typically would love to see family and friends a lot more often, but there are factors that make that a lot more difficult. Family members and friends often move away or they become too busy to stop in. Taking advantage of technology can make this a lot easier.
Video calling and group messaging are two ways to help people to stay in contact with seniors more readily. Another idea is to create a group calendar so everyone can see when seniors are available for a visit.
Encourage Hobbies and Interests
Aging adults who maintain their interests and hobbies might experience loneliness to a lesser extent than people who don’t have something to distract them. When family members make it easier for seniors to engage in their interests and hobbies, that can open up lots of new opportunities for seniors to meet new people and have new experiences.
There may also be local groups that seniors can join that are related to their interests.
Arrange Home Care for Help
For seniors who need a little extra help with daily tasks, home care professionals are a perfect answer. Not only can caregivers assist with hands-on tasks that are becoming more difficult, but they also genuinely love helping older people. They offer companionship that flows easily and can bridge some big loneliness gaps.
Make Transportation Easy
If seniors no longer drive, home care providers can also be helpful in terms of transportation assistance. This ensures that seniors can get wherever they need to go, whether those are social engagements or bigger appointments, like doctor’s visits. When transportation is easier, seniors can feel more confident going places.
Loneliness and the isolation that it can bring are definitely something that family caregivers need to be on the lookout for with their senior family members. Even when someone wants to stay at home, that doesn’t always mean that they don’t need or want companionship of some sort. Home care professionals can be a huge help in determining next steps.
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Home Care in Tolleson, AZ, please contact the caring staff at Blessings for Seniors Companion Care at (623) 594-0819.
Blessings for Seniors makes it possible for older adults to enjoy the comforts of their own home for as long as possible. We offer a customized care plan that includes services such as; Hourly Senior Home Care, 24-Hour Home Care, Dementia Care, Personal Care and Companion Care. Also ask us about our Veterans’ Home Care program.
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