Are you a caregiver, or thinking about becoming one? If so, there is one item that you should be aware of when caring for a senior. Loneliness or isolation should try to be avoided whenever possible. It may be a feat to overcome, but it will give the one you are caring for a better quality of life.
Since we feel so strongly on the subject, here are a few ideas to promote connections and social health for your patient.
Have Transportation
Many seniors get to a point where they cannot drive any longer, so their independence for simple tasks like going to the mall or the park is removed. When you take on the position of being a caregiver, be sure to take them into town for a simple lunch or to people watch and enjoy the fresh air in the park for a few hours a week. Just getting out of the house will feel great!
Purpose
After retirement, many adults struggle to find their sense of purpose in life. As life progresses and seniors feel like they are depending on everyone around them for small tasks, you as the caregiver should help them find a sense of purpose.
Hobbies and other interests are a great place to start. From there, try to find groups, clubs, or volunteer opportunities that they can enjoy with others. This way they can remain active with their interests and build relationships with others who share their passions.
Taking Care
Many experts believe that nurturing can relieve feelings of social isolation. Animal companionship is a good and easy way to give a senior something to care for on a regular basis. This is of course assuming that they can take care of the pet. The companionship will be extremely beneficial, and gives them a reason to get up and get active every morning.
Another example of something to take care of is a garden in the summer. They can grow delicious vegetables for their meals, and even donate extra goods to the local food bank.
The responsibility of taking care of a senior can sometimes be a struggle when they are isolated and lonely. Think about some of the ideas above that we have outlined to help combat these feelings and give them a higher quality of life.
