Combating Social Isolation in Old Age

With over one-third of senior population of America living alone, isolation in older adults has become more common than ever before. Moreover, due to reasons like loss of spouse, limited mobility, chronic health problems, etc; socialization can be difficult to maintain in old age, which significantly contributes to making older adults prone to isolation. According to studies, social isolation in the elderly may lead to the following detrimental health effects:

• An increase in the number of falls
• An increase in the risk of all-cause mortality 
• An increase in the risk of developing dementia
• An increase in the risk of re-hospitalization 

If you have an aging member in your family, here is how you can help them avoid social isolation:

Boost their self-esteem through compliments – Compliment your loved one as much as possible. Positive comments can help boost their self-esteem and ensure that they do not fret over the effects of aging showing on their face or body. When they’ll have a positive body image, they won’t be self-conscious and avoid social interactions.  

Encourage them to dine with others – Whenever possible, encourage them to share a meal with others, be it with friends, family, relatives, or a church group they are a part of. Eating with others is inherently social and can also help promote better nutrition. 

Encourage them to regularly attend their place of worship – If your senior loved one is religious and has been a regular churchgoer; make sure they always attend the religious services to benefit from the social interaction as well as the sense of purpose which the worship provides. 

These small steps can go a long way in ensuring that your loved one remains socially connected. If you often keep busy due to a hectic work schedule, you can seek elderly assistance from Associated Home Care of NJ! To learn about us or our home care services, feel free to call us @ 1-844-284-4844.