How to Overcome Senior Isolation

With over 325 million people living in the U.S. alone, it is hard to imagine that loneliness could be so common. However, more than half of all the elderly live alone, and more than a million of them are likely to be chronically lonely. In fact, nearly 50% of seniors researched reported that their primary resource for companionship is the television which has led to senior isolation problems.

Being lonely may result in severe health concerns as well, reported to have as great an influence as cigarette smoking and being overweight, and can contribute to depression, hypertension, dementia, and also an earlier mortality rate than others who happen to be socially connected.

How can you make sure your senior loved ones steer clear of settling into isolation? The Campaign to End Loneliness suggests using the following measurement method. Check in with the seniors in your life to gauge their responses to these three statements:

1. I am satisfied with my friendships and relationships.
2. I have enough people I feel comfortable asking for support whenever needed.
3. My relationships are as fulfilling as I’d want them to be.

If loneliness is a worry for a loved one in your life, there are steps you can take that can help:

• Consult with your senior loved one’s next-door neighbors, friends, and members of his or her religious organization in order to set up frequent visits.
• Take advantage of technology, such as Facetime and Skype, to allow the senior to keep connected remotely.
• Consider available activities and classes for older adults from the local community college, senior center, and fitness center.

It is also essential to eliminate clinical depression and other health problems as the root reason behind your loved one’s loneliness. A loved one who might be isolating herself as a consequence of mental or physical conditions requires experienced health care services to fully address the problem and receive relevant treatment.

Among the best ways to alleviate loneliness in older adults is by engaging the services of CareWorks Health Services. Our caregiving companions spend quality time with senior loved ones through:

• Friendly conversations
• Participating in rewarding activities such as playing games, cards, exercise, hobbies, and favorite pursuits
• Sharing meals together
• Supplying the transportation and accompaniment necessary to help seniors remain active in the community around them
• And much more

Call CareWorks Health Services, one of the best home health care agencies in Orange County, CA and the surrounding area, now at (949) 859-4700 or contact us online for help in making sure your senior loved one is socially active and experiencing life to the fullest!