According to studies, loneliness is one of the biggest health risks that seniors face. That’s surprising to many people. But seniors who are aging at home sometimes have to work a little harder to get the social interaction that they need to be healthy. Most seniors don’t want to bother their adult children so they may not always reach out to you when they are feeling lonely. But they may not have a lot of friends left that they can walk with. And if their partner or spouse has passed away your senior parent could be socially isolated.
Companion care at home is a great option for seniors that are aging in place. When seniors have companion care at home they get regular visits from a care provider that will go with them shopping, out to lunch, to see a movie, or to other activities. They also may stay home and watch movies, talk and share meals, read books, or just hang out. Companion care at home provides the valuable social interaction that seniors need. If you notice any of these signs in your senior parent it’s time to consider companion are at home because your senior parent may be lonely:
Withdrawing From The Family
If your senior parent used to call you on the phone often, respond to text messages or voice mails, and keep in touch with you and other family members but they don’t really any longer that is a cause for concern. When they are withdrawing from the people they care about the most it could be loneliness or depression. Call as often as you can and try to get your senior loved one to stay engaged with family members.
Loss of Interest In Things They Used To Enjoy
Did your senior loved one used to leave the house to go for walks? Go out to lunch or shopping with friends? Be part of a book club or craft circle? If they used to enjoy social activities and hobbies but lately they haven’t wanted to do any activities or go out much that could be a sign that they are feeling lonely. Make a date to take them out to lunch and try to get them to talk to you about what’s wrong.
Not Keeping Up Their Appearance
Is your senior parent not getting dressed everyday like they used to or not brushing their hair or putting on makeup? If your senior loved one is known for their appearance but now they’re not making an effort it could be because they are lonely and sad. Changes in daily habits like grooming are a big indication that there is either depression, anxiety, or loneliness happening.
Not Eating
Not eating or barely eating is another sign of loneliness in seniors. Seniors who feel lonely may not want to cook because they miss cooking for friends and family or they may skip meals because they hate eating alone. Try to stop by at mealtimes to share some healthy meals and interesting conversation with your senior parent.
Source:
https://www.cdc.gov/aging/publications/features/lonely-older-adults.html
If you or an aging loved one is considering companion care at home in Aurora, CO, call the caring staff at SYNERGY Home Care of Denver today. 303-756-9322
