Modern technology has made it easier than ever to keep in touch with others. The internet, social media apps and smartphones have made it easy to reach anyone at any time, from anywhere. Despite all these advancements, research shows that Americans are lonelier than ever. Seniors experience this loneliness at a higher rate than any other age group.

What are the consequences of being lonely?

Loneliness is something that can be overcome to a certain extent. You can choose to keep your distance or to make an effort to connect with family and friends. It is more difficult to keep in touch with loved ones due to certain factors. Your social circle shrinks as you age. People move away and friends die, while family members become parents, or start their own families. Even if there are family members and friends in the area, mobility issues, illness, and transportation problems can make it difficult for you to leave the house and visit the people you love.

There are also physical consequences associated with age, including decreased mobility and vision impairments. Embarrassment is another factor. Older adults with vision, hearing, or incontinence problems, as well as those who use assistive devices for mobility, may be anxious or self-conscious enough to avoid social situations. They may become more isolated as a result.

Scientists believe that loneliness can have a similar physiological impact on the body to chronic stress. The body produces stress hormones like cortisol to increase inflammation, impair immunity, and contribute to mental illness, chronic health problems, and diabetes. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association Psychiatry suggests that loneliness could be linked to the development of biomarkers within the brain that have been linked with early Alzheimer’s.

Strategies to Overcome Loneliness among Seniors

Loneliness can have severe consequences for seniors’ mental and physical health. You can take action if you’re concerned for your parents, or someone else close to you. Senior loneliness can be combated with simple steps. All it takes to get the wheels turning is one person.

Here are eight ways to help your loved one get over loneliness:

Listen. Listening is sometimes the best thing you could do for someone. Your loved one will feel less isolated if you are there to listen. Engage your loved one by asking questions, engaging in conversation, and encouraging them to speak up. Although it may not be easy at first, it will become easier if you are willing to learn.

Make a plan. Listening is key. You should also take the time to find out about your loved ones’ interests and create a plan to incorporate these into daily life. You can take your loved one to a concert or encourage them to join a local choir if they enjoy music. Even if that seems too difficult, taking an hour to do something with your loved one is a great way to make an impact. You should also discuss the idea of senior care with your parents to give them some perspective early on.

Find a hobby. It is the best way for your brain to stay sharp. As a way to keep active and meet new people, encourage your loved one. You can suggest that they join a book group, start a knitting club, or go to the community center for weekly activities.

Bridge the gap. Finding someone to connect with is not as difficult as you might think for lonely parents or elderly people. It is a great idea to get your loved one in touch with younger relatives. Spending time with grandparents, nieces, and nephews can help them learn a lot. It may also make your loved one feel more involved in family activities.

Take a class or a seminar. Encourage your loved one to attend a class or seminar if they are still mobile. This will allow them to meet new people and get out of their houses. Many community centers and community colleges offer classes free of charge for seniors. Ask around at your library to find out what events are happening.

Teach someone something. Give your loved one the chance to teach you something if taking a class is too difficult. Listen to your loved one, and then ask them to share what they have learned. Even if they only have wisdom or helpful advice to offer, this will bring meaning to the family and help restore some of those child-parent relationships that are sometimes lost when children take over caring for their elderly parents.

Give back. Volunteering offers many benefits to lonely seniors both mental and physical. Volunteering promotes physical activity and keeps the brain active. The National Institute on Aging states that engaging in meaningful activities can reduce the risk of dementia in older adults. It will also get your loved one outside the home and into a social setting.

Adopt a pet. Although an animal is not a substitute for human companionship and love, studies have shown that pet ownership can bring both mental and physical benefits. The brain can respond to having a pet, increasing serotonin and decreasing cortisol levels. A pet can make your home feel more alive and will help you to relax.

Assisted living might be a good option if you’re concerned about the well-being of your loved one. Assisted living communities offer more than just help for the elderly. They also provide social opportunities that aren’t possible elsewhere. It is essential to discuss assisted living with loved ones or parents. They should focus on the benefits, and let them make the decision. It is not what you want for your loved ones to feel that you are trying to take them away.

Aging is part of our daily lives and it is something we cannot escape. There will always be chances to meet new people and to keep in touch with loved ones and family. It is all about making it happen.

For assistance in finding the best assisted living community in Myrtle Beach, call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now.

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Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest
219 Middleburg Dr
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 903-0700
https://www.reflectionsassistedliving.com/