Boredom and isolation can be dangerous for seniors. They can lead to problems with depression and negatively affect overall health. Regular socialization can boost mental health and provide higher quality of life. It keeps seniors both physically and mentally active. Sometimes due to physical or mental challenges, seniors may find it easier or less stressful to just stay home, but it’s a good idea to get them out and about. Find ways to work with their abilities or arrange for transportation or accompaniment so that is not something they have to worry about.
Check out local resources around your community and see what is available for seniors. Some options include:
- Attending programs at the local senior center or rec center.
- Signing up for classes or clubs they enjoy such as photography, cooking, sewing, writing, or chess.
- Visiting museums, restaurants, or stores on designated senior days.
- Going on senior day trips or weekend getaways.
- Finding an organization to volunteer with.
These can be great ways for them to meet new people, spend time with friends doing things they enjoy, or exploring new activities. It can challenge them to continue learning and practicing while also exposing them to different environments outside of their home. Having scheduled plans also gives them something to look forward to and get excited about. They know that on certain days they have a club meeting, volunteer with animals or children, or meet up with friends for breakfast.
Spending Time Together as a Family
You can also incorporate more socialization as a family. Plan activities to do together such as having a picnic in the park, going shopping, watching a movie, or playing games. Let seniors spend time with their grandkids being silly and watching them learn and grow. Invite them to school, sporting, or social events that grandkids might be part of such as recitals, plays, or competitions.
If you live further away and regular visits aren’t possible, teach your loved one how to use video calling platforms such as Skype or FaceTime. That way you can still talk to and see each other whenever you want, even though it’s through a screen. You may have more peace of mind being able to see your loved one, and it can be good for them to see familiar faces too.
Hiring an in-home caregiver through Always Best Care can be a big help as well. A caregiver can provide regular companionship to your senior and sit with them discussing the past, doing favorite activities, or talking about current events. They can help your loved one plan activities, get to and from different events, or join them for meals, concerts, or other outings. Caregivers also provide valuable support around the home helping your senior to remain more independent in a safe and comfortable environment. Having someone stop by on a regular basis ensures that your loved one is not alone for long periods of time, has the help they need, and has someone checking in on their well-being.
To learn more about senior services through Always Best Care or schedule your free consultation, call (855) 470-2273 today. Support your loved in aging in place by getting them the level of care they need when they need it.
