Can Loneliness Can Be Lethal?

Most people have felt the pang of loneliness at some point in life, whether truly alone or in a crowd of people.  As our senior loved ones age, loneliness can become a way of life.  Loneliness in the elderly can lead to depression, failed health and in some cases, an early death, according to a study by the UCSF (source).

As caregivers, we are often overwhelmed with many responsibilities.  Unfortunately for our senior loved ones, it is often difficult to make time to visit regularly, even when living in the same home.  In the study references above, loneliness was described as feeling left out or lacking companionship.  One senior told the director at her adult day care that she was very lonely, despite living with her daughter’s family.  “They don’t see me or talk to me.  They treat me like a piece of furniture.” 

It is vital to your senior loved one’s well-being to prevent loneliness.  One great alternative is adult day care.  Seniors enjoy companionship with others in a safe, secure environment.  The routine of going to the adult day care facility to see new friends can help your senior loved one feel like they are a part of something new and exciting.  The senior referenced above went on to say that she is eternally grateful for her friends at Bon Vivant Adult Day Club.  “My friends at the Club make me laugh and genuinely care about me.  I can’t imagine my life without them.”

If your senior loved one suffers from loneliness and/or needs supervision during the day while you work, consider an adult day care center.  Bon Vivant Adult Day Club is the premier adult day care center located in Fenton, MO.  The cost of adult day care is less than half of assisted living and less than one fourth of the price of nursing home care.  Payment options include Missouri Aged and Disable Waiver, long term care insurance, veteran’s benefits and private pay.

Bon Vivant Adult Day Club is licensed by the State of Missouri and welcomes the opportunity to meet with you and your loved ones to answer your questions about adult day care.  Please feel free to visit the Bon Vivant website at www.goodlivinglonger.com or call Angela at 636-343-1600.  Follow Bon Vivant on Facebook and Twitter.  Take a picture tour of Bon Vivant Adult Day Club by clicking here.

Article by Beverly McKee