Bonds of friendship are often formed when we’re young, and many of these bonds continue to stay strong well into the golden years. Here’s why it’s important for your senior loved one to stay socially active, whether it’s through maintaining longstanding friendships or building brand new relationships.
Why Do Seniors Become Socially Isolated?
Older adults who retire or move in with their families may have fewer opportunities to engage with other seniors. Limited mobility and various other health conditions can make it difficult to get out of the house to meet friends or take part in activities. By finding new opportunities to socialize with others, your loved one can enhance his or her physical and emotional wellbeing, maintain cognitive function, and even increase his or her lifespan. All of these can lead to a higher quality of life.
If you have a senior loved one who needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of home care Orlando families can rely on. All of our caregivers are bonded, licensed, and insured, there are no hidden fees, and we never ask our clients to sign long-term contracts.
What Are the Risks of Social Isolation?
Older adults without strong friendships are likely to be less physically active, which can lead to obesity and a variety of other health concerns, posing a greater risk of death. Social isolation may also contribute to depression, which can result in self-destructive behaviors like smoking and alcohol abuse.
What Are the Benefits of Being Social?
Seniors who maintain close friendships and engage with others socially often gain a number of health benefits over those who are socially withdrawn. Some of these benefits include reduced risks of:
- Certain cancers, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and cardiovascular disease
- Cognitive decline, including Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia
- High blood pressure
- Anxiety, depression, and other emotional health issues
Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality homecare. Trust Assisting Hands Home Care to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably.
How Can Seniors Build and Maintain Friendships?
You can help your loved one maintain longstanding friendships by encouraging him or her to call, write, or email friends who live far away. Your loved one can also build new friendships by trying new activities like:
- Volunteering for a community organization
- Visiting a local senior center
- Signing up for an exercise class designed for seniors
- Joining a book club
- Taking a class to learn a new skill or hobby
An in-home caregiver can also become a trusted friend for your loved one. Orlando home care professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers. Reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care today to learn how we can help you and your loved one.
