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Senior Care: The Importance of Companionship

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Humans need companionship to thrive, but many people feel lonely. This feeling of loneliness is common among seniors who may not have the mobility to get out and be around others. They lose loved ones and close companions and find that they are isolated more often than they are around others. Families cannot discount the importance of companionship for seniors today.

Why Seniors Are Often Lonely

Seniors often struggle to be around others for various reasons. They no longer go to work every day, and their children have families of their own. Mobility issues interfere with seniors’ ability to socialize,  and families often don’t live near one another. Grandchildren can no longer run down the street to see their grandparents after school. Grown children cannot stop by and check on their parents on the way home because they no longer live nearby. People need to realize this and ensure they are helping senior citizens in the community interact with others regularly.

The Importance of Regular Interaction for Seniors

Seniors must regularly engage with others to protect their emotional and mental well-being. Research shows that regular interaction with others may increase seniors’ lifespans. These interactions have positive benefits, even when the senior engages with neighbors and disability care professionals rather than family members.

The Dangers of Isolation for Seniors

Loneliness and isolation negatively impact the health and well-being of seniors. Tulane University researchers report that isolation leads to decreased immune function, anxiety and depression, and suicidal thoughts. A senior who is isolated and lonely is at more risk of cardiovascular health issues and their cognitive function declines. A senior who is lonely has a 40% higher risk of developing dementia than a senior who has regular interactions with others.

What Leads to This Isolation?

Many seniors wish to remain in their own homes even after their spouse passes away. Their adult children have their own lives, and the seniors do not want to become burdens. Elderly men and women who move into senior living communities may also feel isolated because they don’t know anyone. Fortunately, staff members are there to help them make connections.

Hearing loss is another issue that contributes to isolation. According to the National Institute on Aging, 33% of individuals between the ages of 65 and 74 have some hearing loss, and approximately 50% of individuals 75 years of age and older have hearing loss. This hearing loss prevents them from fully engaging in society, often making them feel lonely and isolated.

How Caregivers Can Help

Caregivers can help seniors strengthen their relationships while helping them feel supported. They must communicate openly and visit frequently so seniors get the necessary interactions. Family members may consider looking for a hobby they can share with the senior and frequently engage in this activity.

Talk with seniors frequently about things they are interested in. Allow them to share stories from their past.  Encourage them to participate in social opportunities whenever possible and use technology to visit with them more frequently.

Talk with seniors about their personal goals and help them find ways to achieve them. If seniors struggle with dementia or other cognitive difficulties, be sensitive to their needs. They need understanding and compassion during this stage of life.

Families must understand that seniors need companionship just as people do in every stage of life. Seniors may struggle to make these connections, but giving them plenty of opportunities will make it easier.  Seniors who maintain relationships with others feel supported and valued, which benefits their mental and physical health and well-being, so every family should prioritize these relationships. 

2 thoughts on “Senior Care: The Importance of Companionship

  1. How old do you have to be To be considered a senior. Nowadays

  2. Do not check in to Hackensack Meridian Pascack Valley Hospital if your a senior, you might not make it out!

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