In-Home Care - Socialization

Many people are faced with the reality, either for themselves or a loved one, that performing basic activities of daily living are becoming more and more difficult. However, moving to a facility is certainly not the desired outcome. In those instances, in-home care may be an excellent option.

In this post I talk about socialization and the important role it plays in the elderly population to help maintain quality of life and their general well-being. Socialization is not just for the young. Elderly folks need to experience a healthy social life, and positive relationships are important at any age. Consistent social interactions help to keep one emotionally, mentally and physically fit. It provides a sense of belonging and purpose and overall meaningful existence. However, the elderly are much more apt to experience isolation and loneliness.

There are a number of health benefits that can be realized from positive socialization as outlined by LiveStrong.

• Reduces stress – Older adults who are socially active can handle stress better which can lead to an improved immune system and overall good health.
• Longer life span – Socialization helps to increase longevity.
• More fitness -- Older adults who have diverse social supports are more likely to exercise regularly.
• Reduced risk of depression and anxiety – Consistent socialization reduces the likelihood that seniors will experience depression caused by loneliness and isolation.
• Greater self-esteem – Socialization helps seniors maintain a healthy level of self-esteem.

There is a tremendous boost to a senior’s cognitive health as well. Positive social interactions help to keep seniors stimulated, mentally sharp and intellectually engaged. Improvements to cognitive areas can help prevent general cognitive decline and memory loss.

As you can see, socialization has many benefits to the elderly population. However, there are obstacles that seniors face, unique to them, when trying to stay active and maintain social relationships.

• Physical ailments
• Loss of spouse or significant other
• Isolation due to transportation issues
• True cognitive decline
• Reduced availability of family members to assist with social activities

Some of these obstacles are easier to overcome than others. The key is active intervention. A lack of socialization can lead to the very difficulties that prevent it. It is crucial to get involved early to try to prevent these obstacles from becoming rooted in our loved one’s life.

Let’s take a look at some of the ways seniors (and their loved ones) can cultivate a healthy social life and ward of depression and isolation.

• Keep them physically active – This doesn’t have to be running a marathon. Gentle exercises (as long as they can be done safely) such as walking, stretching, chair yoga can go a long way towards physical health. Also, group exercise classes for seniors are a great way to make new friends.
• Provide positive interaction with grandchildren and other family members/friends – Show them you love them, engage them in conversation and give hugs often.
• Entrust them with small chores/responsibilities – Doing so will give them confidence to want to pursue other opportunities. Even something as simple as caring for a plant will help boost their sense of purpose.
• Encourage social interaction and provide transportation if needed – Outings to church/family gatherings, having coffee at a coffee shop and attending community events are excellent ways to instill a sense of belonging.
• Hire a home care agency -- If it’s difficult for a senior to get out on a regular basis, providing a caregiver a couple of times a week can help fill the void of a deceased spouse or family members that are too busy or live far away. The companionship of a caregiver may be the only social interaction a senior has on a regular basis.

Socialization may not happen on its own, but with the encouragement and support of family and loved ones, seniors can experience a healthy social life and enjoy positive relationships which can lead to improved mental and physical health and increased longevity.

Assisting Hands Home Care provides caregivers to assist with non-medical activities of daily living (ADL’s) in a client’s personal residence, senior living community or while staying with a friend or family members, for as little as 3 hours once per week, to seven days a week. A free consultation is always available to help determine if in-home care is good option. For more information about Assisting Hands Home Care, call Robin Elario at 262-212-0114, email at relario@assistinghands.com or visit our website at www.assistinghands.com/menomon...