Tips to Help Your Senior Loved One Cope with Loneliness
As your senior loved one ages, you may try to spend as much time with them as possible; however, they may still feel lonely. This is especially true if they have recently lost their spouse and are having to learn how to live on their own.
This is even more difficult if you do not live nearby and can only come to visit once a month, or even less. There are other seniors that may not have children to care for them and look out for their well-being.
Statistics about Senior Loneliness
According to the Administration on Aging, there are were more than 11.3 million seniors who were living on their own in 2010. In this group, a large number of the ones that were over the age of 75 also lived alone. While seniors will want to remain in their home for as long as possible, in many cases it may be unhealthy or even unsafe for them.
Being lonely and alone can have a number of negative consequences for seniors. Loneliness may result in isolation and depression, which can lead to a number of physical issues, mobility loss and eventually their independence.
How to Help Seniors deal with Loneliness
If you are caring for a senior loved one, or have hired a professional Santa Clarita caregiver, there are a number of things that can be done to help combat loneliness.
- Sign them up for some type of class or other senior activity center.
- Schedule visits from friends, family and other organizations.
- Ask friends to send letters, cards or other communication.
- Schedule the week for your senior, showing them they have something to look forward to each day.
- Provide a plant or pet that needs to be cared for.
When you take the time and initiative to help ensure your senior loved one will not be lonely, chances are they will be happier and healthier. If you need help, contact Comfort Keepers in Santa Clarita. The in home care staff will provide you seniors with the care they need ensuring that there is someone there to talk to when they need it most.
Comfort Keepers
23900 Lyons Avenue
Santa Clarita, CA 91321
661-287-4200
