Loneliness is an epidemic in the United States, but social isolation occurs even more widely among aging veterans who deal with unique circumstances as a result of serving in the military. Fortunately, caregivers can help combat social isolation and loneliness in this vulnerable population.
Why are aging veterans more socially isolated?
Elder veterans who’ve spent time in the military community no longer have this extensive social support once they leave. Members of the military show high levels of support toward each other, leading to a sense of belonging. Upon discharge, this support vanishes, leaving aged veterans lonely and isolated.
Social isolation is also caused when experienced veterans have difficulty reassimilating into civilian life. They may face challenges adjusting to new routines at home, as military environments are highly structured and hierarchical. Home routines, in contrast, offer significant autonomy and flexibility.
Aging veterans struggle to feel reconnected with family and friends who have not served in the military, which leads to feelings of social isolation. A sense of identity is also lost as veterans leave the military, feeling uncertain about how to find their place in society, which can be isolating.
Mental health issues that develop as a result of participating in or witnessing combat can also be problematic for veterans, furthering their social isolation. Anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and depression are common mental health disorders that affect many military veterans.
What age-related issues contribute to social isolation?
The need for social connection is strong, especially among aged veterans. Older adults already experience challenges with maintaining social ties due to aging. For instance, seniors experience poor vision and hearing, which make conversations difficult to hear and contribute to.
Memory loss causes the elderly to struggle to find the right words, impacting the flow of discussion and verbal communication with others. Dementia patients may no longer recognize familiar faces, which further isolates them. When loved ones pass away, older adults become more socially isolated.
Disability can make it hard to get around. It’s not uncommon for aging veterans to live with some form of disability that interferes with living independently. Whether their disability involves limited motion of the arm or ankle, their decreased mobility prevents them from actively engaging with their community.
How do caregivers help aging veterans relieve social isolation?
1. Volunteer for a Meaningful Cause
Aging veterans who volunteer feel a greater sense of purpose in their lives. These individuals contribute to the betterment of their community, giving back to those in need. Volunteer opportunities are numerous, such as collecting food for military families in the area or assisting at the VA facility.
2. Participate in AFRC Recreation Centers
The Armed Forces Recreation Centers (AFRC) are available to military veterans. The Department of Defense owns a chain of hotels that offers lodging and outdoor recreational opportunities to US military retirees. Offering affordable vacations, AFRC enhances the quality of life for aged veterans.
3. Join Veterans Clubs
Senior veterans who join clubs remain socially active instead of isolated. Numerous clubs and veterans’ organizations exist, such as American Legion and Marine Corps League. Outside of these veterans’ organizations, the elderly can join AARP and AmeriCorps Seniors for opportunities to interact.
4. Take Fitness Classes
Older veterans who show an interest can take a class. Meet with likeminded others in physical exercise classes, such as walking clubs. Additionally, Gerofit is a fitness program geared toward improving the health and wellness of veterans through various strength and aerobic exercises.
5. Find a Hobby
Aging vets can start a new hobby or restart an old one. Woodworking, fishing, photography, and birdwatching are common passions. Seniors can also join a community garden, which opens the door to social interactions. Play board games and assemble puzzles with a companion caregiver.
6. Keep in Touch
Schedule a time each day to speak with loved ones or friends. Keep in contact via phone calls, email, texts, or video chats. Social media is another way to stay connected. Maintain friendships mailing cards and letters, too. Participate in shared activities that nurture these relationships.
7. Join Faith-Based Organizations
A local faith-based organization can help elderly vets deepen their spirituality, while also introducing them to others who share the same faith. These organizations often hold events and activities that older veterans can attend to meet and socialize with fellow members.
8. Socialize at VA Medical Centers
The Veterans Canteen Service (VCS) Patriot Brew Coffee Shops are located within VA medical centers and outpatient clinics throughout the US. Many veterans spend time inside these coffee shops, savoring the various coffees, pastries, and lunches while enjoying the company of fellow veterans.
VA Home Care from Assisting Hands
Aging veterans who stay active in their communities deter social isolation. The abovementioned ways to combat social isolation may require help from a caregiver. Assisting Hands Home Care is positioned to provide veterans with the support they need to stay socially engaged and healthy.
Our reliable veteran home care services are designed to uplift older vets, improve their physical health, and enhance their overall well-being. We’re ideal caregivers who offer much-need senior companionship through pleasant conversations, outings, enjoyable recreational activities, puzzles, games, and more.
Responsibilities include providing safe transportation and escort to nearby destinations, like the medical clinic or pharmacy. We drive your aging loved one to exercise class or to their volunteer organization. Our compassionate elder care services help senior vets stay active in their communities.
Caregivers also shop for healthy groceries, prepare healthy meals, and give timely medication reminders. We provide respectful assistance with hygiene tasks, like grooming, bathing, and toileting. Light housekeeping and removing fall hazards are included to keep the home clean and safe.
Assisting Hands Home Care professionals are licensed, bonded, and insured to give families and their aging loved ones peace of mind. Care options are flexible and varied, from respite care to 24-hour care. We serve serve seniors living in Burleson, Cleburne, Granbury, Mansfield, Midlothian, Mineral Wells, Stephenville, Waxahachie, TX, and the surrounding areas. Call us at (817) 592-8843 to schedule a free in-home consult today to learn more.
