Social isolation is something that seniors and their families can’t ignore. Isolation can very quickly lead to depression and other mental health issues that need to be addressed sooner rather than later. Putting solutions like companion care at home in place can do a lot to resolve these issues, but first families need to recognize what is going on. That’s why it’s so important to understand the possible causes of social isolation for seniors.
Living Alone
Seniors who live alone might have been fine to do so in years past. But as their health and other variables change, living alone can become a lonelier situation than it used to be. Seniors who don’t drive any longer, for instance, may find that they don’t have access to the social outlets that worked for them before. They may also feel differently about living alone than they did before. Having home care providers there with them can offer solutions like help with transportation as well as companionship.
Having Friends and Family Far Away
When friends and family members live far away, seniors might not have as many opportunities to socialize in person. They might feel uncomfortable with the idea of going out and meeting new people. Or they might not have a way to do that easily. Staying in touch with family and friends who are extremely busy can also feel impossible. Aging adults don’t want to feel like a burden to the people they love, so they may not mention how they’re feeling.
Illness and Disability
Having poor health is another reason seniors may be isolated and lonely. They may not be able to do what they used to do, which can make them feel as if they can’t really be around other people. Their mobility may be hampered, causing them to stay at home more than they ever did in the past. Having assistance from elder care providers might make a difference for seniors, plus the friendships they develop with caregivers further reduce isolation.
Lack of Access to Social Activities
There might not be as many activities available for seniors in their area, either. Seniors who live in rural areas or who don’t have transportation may find themselves more likely to be battling isolation. Finding new ways to access social activities, either through getting things like transportation assistance or accessing social activities online, could make a big difference.
Hearing Loss
Seniors who are experiencing hearing loss often self-isolate. They tend to do this because it becomes too difficult to carry on conversations or because it feels awkward trying to keep up. Seniors may also feel self-conscious because they’re having more trouble hearing, which makes them avoid social encounters.
Poor Mental Health
If seniors are having trouble with their mental health in other ways, they may not feel up for being as social as they need to be. Those mental health struggles then typically become exacerbated by self-isolation and lack of social interaction. It’s vital that seniors have a social outlet as a way of improving mental health in general.
One of the easiest ways for family caregivers to help their seniors get the socialization that they need is by working with companion care at home. Companion caregivers spend time with seniors, help them engage in activities, and keep family members informed about how their senior is doing.
If you or an aging loved one is considering companion care at home in Edina, MN, and the surrounding areas, please contact the friendly staff at CareBuilders at Home Minnesota. Call today 612-260-2273.
