7 Tips for Preventing Isolation in Older Adults

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Solitary living can take a toll on the mental and physical wellbeing of seniors, which is why it’s so important for them to maintain social bonds as they age. Here are seven ways seniors can stave off social isolation.

1. Get Help with Transportation

For seniors who can no longer drive, staying social can be challenging. There are many services that provide seniors with transportation. Caregivers can help by finding local transportation services through government-sponsored ride programs and community organizations. You can also hire an in-home caregiver to provide transportation.

Home care service experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors 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.

2. Sign Up for Volunteer Visits

Conversation is a powerful tool. When seniors have the chance to converse on a regular basis, they lower their risk of cognitive decline. Consider signing housebound seniors up for visits from volunteers. Programs like Meals on Wheels have volunteers who simply sit and talk with seniors, and they’re a great way to ensure seniors have regular companionship. 

For families living in Huntsville, at-home 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.

3. Use Technology 

Technology can be an invaluable tool for seniors. Video chat services like Skype can help them connect with friends and family members all across the world. These services are easy to use, and even tech-averse seniors can get the hang of them with practice.

4. Join a Club 

Seniors can meet like-minded people by joining local clubs. Help your loved one find clubs that suit his or her interests, ranging from garden clubs to book clubs. These clubs connect seniors with people who share their interests, and members often form real and lasting friendships.

5. Attend Exercise Classes 

Instead of exercising at home, seniors should consider joining group exercise classes. Seniors of all mobility levels can find classes appropriate for them. Low-impact aerobics classes are good for seniors who want to get their hearts pumping, and water aerobics is perfect for seniors who are experiencing joint pain or arthritis. Seniors in need of some stress relief may want to try beginners’ yoga classes, where they can benefit from the shared experience of working out and getting healthy. 

6. Spend Time with a Pet

If seniors need companionship, pets can be the perfect solution. Cats and dogs provide affection, which can be a great comfort to seniors who are isolated. Caring for a pet also provides a sense of purpose, which can boost emotional wellbeing. 

7. Find a Place of Worship

Seniors who enjoy spiritual worship should be encouraged to attend services on a weekly basis. Places of worship provide communities of people ready to assist with meals, transportation, and more. Many churches have transportation services that help their senior members get to church every week. For seniors who find solace in religion, these communities can be an invaluable asset.

Hiring a professional caregiver is another way to prevent your loved one from spending his or her days alone and bored. For families living in Huntsville, 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. Call us at (256) 716-9940 to create a care plan tailored to suit your loved one’s needs.

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