With more than 325 million people living in the U.S. alone, it’s hard to believe that loneliness would be as prevalent as it is. Yet more than half of all older adults live alone, and over a million of them are estimated to be chronically lonely. In fact, nearly half of seniors researched reported that their main source of companionship is the television.
Loneliness among the elderly can result in serious health concerns as well, reported to have as great an impact as smoking cigarettes and obesity, and leading to depression, high blood pressure, dementia, and even an earlier mortality rate than those who are socially connected.
How can you ensure your senior loved ones avoid sinking into isolation? The Campaign to End Loneliness recommends utilizing the following measurement tool. Check in with the seniors in your life to assess their responses to these three statements:
- I am content with my friendships and relationships.
- I have enough people I feel comfortable asking for help at any time.
- My relationships are as satisfying as I would want them to be.
If loneliness is a concern for a senior in your life, there are a variety of steps you can take to help:
- Check with your senior loved one’s neighbors, friends, and members of his or her religious organization to try to organize regular visits.
- Utilize technology, such as Facetime and Skype, to allow the senior to stay connected remotely.
- Look into available activities and classes for older adults at the local community college, senior center, and gym.
It’s also important to rule out clinical depression or other health problems as the underlying cause of your loved one’s loneliness. A senior who is isolating herself as a result of mental or physical complications requires professional medical care to fully address the problem and receive appropriate treatment.
One of the best ways to alleviate loneliness among the elderly is by engaging the services of the Hinsdale in-home care experts at Independence-4-Seniors Home Care. Our caregiving companions spend quality time with older adults through:
- Friendly conversations
- Engaging in enjoyable pastimes such as playing games, cards, exercise, hobbies, and favorite interests
- Sharing mealtimes together
- Providing the transportation and accompaniment needed to help seniors stay involved in the world around them
- And so much more
Contact us any time at (630) 323-4665 for assistance in ensuring that your senior loved one is socially active and enjoying life to the fullest!