How to Avoid Social Isolation among Seniors

A person that lives alone while in their twenties and early thirties find this to be a fun, and independent time of their life. Older adults over the age of 55, and living alone, may experience a totally different outlook than their younger counterparts. There are more than 50 million Americans who are 65 and older. Of this number, 14% of them live alone. Twice as many women than men live on their own. Many of the people in the older age demographic group do not enjoy all of the socializing that takes place in society today. They mostly prefer to be alone, or only spend time with family. 

Some Causes of Social Isolation 

Older adults will tend to become isolated from others when their health starts to cause serious concerns. This becomes their main focus. Oftentimes, the lack of close ties with family, and loneliness will cause an older adult to refrain from socializing with others. When an older adult loses a special loved one, they will generally withdraw from the social aspect of life. One other reason for an older adult to become socially isolated could be the move from their residence. They could be forced to start their life over by getting to know new people. This is difficult for many elderly people.  Get Your Senior Loved One Physically Active 

Seniors should be encouraged to be as active as possible. Physical activity is essential to their emotional, psychological, and physical well being. Joining an exercise class at the neighborhood senior center, or YMCA will help your senior avoid being isolated from society. They can enjoy the companionship of their peers while engaging in meaningful conversation. Your senior loved one will look forward to going to these classes for social interaction. They will soon prefer being around others more than being alone. Being physically active will not only enhance the body, but it will also do wonders for their social and intellectual life. 
Involve Your Senior Loved One in Planning Family Activities 

Include your elderly loved one in the planning of family trips, or other events. It is not enough to call them to say that you are taking them along, give them the opportunity to express their ideas or opinions. Allowing them to be more vocal with the family means that they will have more to talk about when in the presence of others. They will feel more like mingling when in an unfamiliar place. 

Family members and McKinney & Allen home caregivers should be social with their senior loved ones by taking them to different places where they can communicate with many different people. When visiting a loved one who lives alone, always have an alternative to just sitting around in the home. Offer to take them to lunch or dinner, the mall, to see a play or concert, or go to the park. Your senior loved one is sure to meet and socialize with others when they are away from the loneliness of being home with no one to talk to.

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Home Care Assistance of McKinney & Allen

906 W McDermott Dr #128, Allen, TX 75013, United States

972-548-0392