Many seniors find themselves with fewer loved ones and less freedom to go places, so they’re more likely to feel alone. Isolation can lead to depression, anxiety, and poor health, so it’s important to find ways to prevent loneliness. Use these seven tips to help your elderly loved one stave off isolation.
- Find a Class to Join
Joining a dancing, painting, or cooking class is a simple and fun way for seniors to meet new friends. Even introverted seniors can make new acquaintances when they have classmates to discuss projects with. Finding a hobby to learn more about can occupy your loved one’s time and encourage him or her to interact with others more.
Seniors living with serious health conditions may need assistance with getting out of the house or tending to other daily tasks. Senior home care experts are available to provide high-quality care to older adults on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
- Spend Time with a Pet
Pets can be a valuable source of companionship. Many seniors feel less isolated when they have pets. Seniors with pets can interact with others in pet training courses as well as at dog parks and pet shows.
- Start an Exercise Program
Many seniors find exercising can be a surprisingly social activity, which makes it a great way to enhance both emotional and physical health. Activities like water aerobics, yoga, and nature walks can help seniors remain active and involved with others.
An in-home caregiver can help your loved one develop and maintain an exercise routine. In Potomac, homecare agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Assisting Hands Home Care, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. Our caregivers encourage seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.
- Visit a Local Senior Center
Community senior centers provide activities and classes for seniors to participate in, and engaging in these activities can be a fun way to spend time. In areas without dedicated senior centers, check out local churches for similar opportunities for older adults.
- Start Volunteering
Seniors who are worried about a lack of purpose in their lives may appreciate this method of preventing isolation. Giving back to the community is a great way for seniors to enjoy socializing while helping others. Fun volunteering opportunities for seniors include helping at the local library, answering phones for a nonprofit organization, and planning and organizing community events.
- Learn New Technology
Modern technology makes it easier for seniors to communicate with old acquaintances and meet new people. Programs like Skype encourage seniors to video chat with faraway relatives, or they can use meetup websites to chat with potential friends.
- Receive Help with Transportation
Many elderly people end up isolated simply because they can no longer drive to meet friends and family. To address this cause of isolation, look for local senior assistance programs that provide help with transportation. Seniors can also hire professional in-home caregivers who can help them get out of the house and meet up with friends.
If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a trusted provider of Potomac home care service. Our caregivers provide transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping. To learn about our high-quality in-home care services, give us a call at 301-960-7892 today.