For most people, the forthcoming holiday season is bound to be a joyous one. Even with COVID-19 impacting the ways in which we get together, it’s hard to deny that the holidays are a time for celebrating with loved ones. Of course, not everyone has frequent access to their loved ones. For elderly individuals, visiting family members and friends has been especially hard during the pandemic. This has contributed to their loneliness.
Is there something you can do to help your elderly loved ones battle with their senses of isolation? What are some keys to helping seniors overcome loneliness?
Adopt a pet for your parent.
If the senior in your family is physically capable of caring for a small pet, you’d be hard pressed to find a better solution to his/her loneliness. Puppies and kittens are popularly known for bringing joy to people of all ages. Such a friendly companion can work wonders in helping your elderly loved one to no longer feel lonely. Consider buying a puppy or kitten for your elderly parent this holiday season. Alternatively, consider taking him/her pet shopping. The excursion itself will boost his/her happiness.
“Owning a pet promotes unconditional love and companionship, giving seniors a sense of purpose!” agrees Nurse Next Door, “It also encourages a more active lifestyle and increased social interaction.”
Promote an active lifestyle.
Exercise is important for people of all ages. It’s a vital part of maintaining a healthy weight and overall well-being. For seniors, light exercises are highly recommended. An active lifestyle doesn’t just ward off illness, it also helps to relieve depression.
“Research found that physical activity can be a lifesaver for aging persons,” reports Zara Lewis on DailyCaring.com, “Gentle exercises such as walking, stair climbing, and age-appropriate workouts can help a senior stay in solid physical, mental, and emotional shape. You can also encourage the depressed person to sign up for a group exercise class like yoga or tai chi – they might even make friends with like-minded peers.”
Encourage treatment for the depression.
Is your elderly loved one more depressed than normal these days? If so, don’t hesitate to seek the help of a professional. It takes a great deal of effort to cater to the emotional needs of seniors who suffer from depression. It shouldn’t be your responsibility alone. Consult a physician and ask what steps can be taken in order to treat your elderly loved one’s senses of loneliness, depression and isolation.
“Seek professional help such as different therapies or medications and be sure your loved one is keeping up with their treatment plan,” encourages Nurse Next Door, “If the depression is chronic and severe, it’s definitely advised to see a psychiatrist or therapist, counselling alongside prescribed medication might be the most effective way to help with the chemical imbalance in your brain causing the depression.”
At LifeCare Mobility Solutions, we’d love to help the senior in your life overcome loneliness. Is he/she contending with a mobility issue we can assist with? Learn all about our mobility solutions by calling us at 416-267-9800 or emailing us at info@lifecaremobility.ca. You may also contact us by filling out the form on our Contact page.