Lonliness in Elderly Family Members

Loneliness can really take a toll on an elderly person. There is a combination of factors that go into feelings of loneliness at an advanced age. Friends, spouses, and family members eventually move into retirement communities, enter nursing homes, or pass away. With limited mobility, an elderly individual slowly loses their ability to go out of their own accord. Even those in nursing homes can feel the sting of loneliness. So what can we do as concerned family members to combat the feelings of loneliness in our loved ones?

Why Social Interaction is Important

Our emotions are tied to our health. Being lonely, sad, or just stressed out can have a negative impact on your physical health. It is often referred to as a mind/body connection. Your emotional health can impact your mental or physical health. When you are happy, your body is more able to perform tasks such as fighting off infections, regulating bodily functions, and maintaining your health overall. 
Social interaction is also important to maintaining positive emotional health. Depression can be common in elderly individuals who do not get to interact with others often. Unfortunately, mental health issues are often overlooked in older generations. 

Take Them Out For the Day

One of the best ways to combat loneliness in the short-term is to spend some time with your loved one. Take them shopping or accompany them on errands. Spending time with your loved one, even during their usual schedule, can make them feel a lot less lonely. 
You can also plan a day with them doing something that they might not normally do. Go see a movie together, or take a stroll in the park. Planning a fun activity every once in a while can give your loved one something to look forward to, and can be important to keeping them happy.

Community Events and Groups

If your loved one is a part of a nursing home or assisted living community, they often have a wide variety of events, clubs, groups, exercise classes, and activities for residents. Encourage your loved one to get involved in these. Social interaction is important, and it is good for them to make friends in their community or building. If they are hesitant, try accompanying them to the event. The reason that retirement communities or nursing homes have events almost every day is to keep residents happy and active. Check out their community’s calendar to see what is happening that might interest your loved one.

No Pets

Many people grow up and live most of their adult lives with animal companions, be it a dog, cat, bird, or even a fish. Unfortunately, most nursing homes or assisted living buildings do not allow pets. If your loved one is living on their own, consider getting them a pet. Pets can help them feel loved and give them someone to talk to. Companionship to a cat or dog can be very helpful in improving an elderly person’s happiness and can reduce the risk of depression from loneliness. If your loved one is in assisted living or another elderly community, check out the community guidelines to see if they are allowed to have pets of any kind. Even a small fish tank can make a big difference in making your loved one happier.

A Lack Of Companionship

After the passing of a spouse or partner, it can be difficult for anyone to escape the feeling of loneliness, let alone an elderly person. How do you cope with an empty side of the bed after 50 years of marriage? Helping your loved one overcome feelings of loss and loneliness after the loss of a spouse or partner can take a while. But accepting the loss and being able to come out of their grief, in time, can be better for their overall health. 

In-Home Care

Nurses or Aides that visit or live in the home with your loved one can provide companionship and assist them in staying socially active. In addition to helping with daily tasks or errands, in-home care professionals look after the health of your loved one and make sure that they are taking care of themselves.

For over 50 years, Matthew Funeral Home has been serving the Staten Island community. We can help with almost every aspect of your loved one’s memorial service. Our family is here to serve yours, every step of the way.