It’s human nature to interact with others to flourish and remain happy and healthy. Yet, as you age, it’s natural for relationships to gradually disappear. You may have recently discovered that an elderly loved one is suffering from extreme loneliness and you may be confused as to how to help. There are several reasons why it is typically the older generation that suffers from loneliness, whether it be the death of a partner or friend or struggling with illnesses and disabilities which is preventing them from venturing out and forming relationships.
If you have taken on the role of a carer for your elderly relative or loved one, understanding how to combat their feelings of loneliness are not always straightforward. However, it isn’t impossible. Here are some top tips for you to take on board:
Get in touch with their doctor
If you believe that your elderly relative is suffering from loneliness, keep a look out for symptoms like:
- A change in attitude and behavior
- A lack of interest in their usual activities
- Difficulty separating from visitors
If you spot any of these signs, it may be worth getting in contact with their GP or a health professional. Loneliness can have a knock-on effect on mental health and lead to issues such as stress and depression. In this instance, a doctor may be able to suggest certain methods to overcome reduce symptoms and overcome the matter, whether it be medication, counseling, or useful approaches to connect with others.
Consider residential care
Your elderly loved one may have resided in their current property for many years and have a strong emotional connection to their home. However, in some instances, it may be worth suggesting a move to an elderly living facility, where they will have the opportunity to meet others and be involved in social events within the premises. This is one of the best options for elderly individuals who like to socialize, as there will always be someone around to talk to – whether it be a resident, carer, or visitor. There are lots of alternatives to consider depending on the level of care they may require, but you will likely end up comparing independent living vs assisted living. Both have pros to selecting, but it comes down to your loved one’s individual case regarding which one is the right one for them.
Suggest activities
Activities are a great way to provide your elderly loved ones with an occasional pastime to stay occupied during downtime. It could be as simple as going for a walk around the neighborhood, encouraging them to join a club, or even a fitness class to improve their stamina and physical health.
Additionally, you may even suggest the idea of taking up volunteering to help them get involved with a worthy cause and potentially make a difference in the community. This is sure to improve their personal satisfaction and potentially meet new people from all walks of life.
Encourage them to adopt a pet
Animals have the ability to provide therapeutic advantages in the form of full-time companionship, acceptance, and unconditional love. As the sole caregiver of a rescue dog, for example, your elderly relative will have the sole focus of feeding and walking their four-legged friend which gives them a purpose to get up in the morning. Additionally, they are likely to greet a number of people while on dog walks, which may stimulate interesting conversations and potentially develop long-term friendships.
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