How to Help Seniors Overcome Loneliness

Depression is a terrible thing for anyone to go through, especially the elderly. Loneliness can lead to depression, and aging adults face loneliness on a growing basis as their spouses, friends, and families move away, or pass on. It takes a conscious effort to overcome lonely times and not let them overtake you. If you want to ensure your senior doesn’t fall into the throes of depression, take proactive steps, including hiring a personal support worker. They offer the personalized touch that provides your loved one with what they need, not to be lonely and to thrive in their golden years.

Suggestions to Combat Loneliness in Seniors

Remaining socially isolated can lead to loneliness. Having times alone may be nice when you want to read a book, but it isn’t helpful over long periods. Help your aging loved one overcome their loneliness with these six suggestions:

1. Take time to be with them. Sometimes, people just want to be heard. When Dad starts talking, why not sit down and actively listen? Being listened to is uplifting and makes one feel less alone. Think of how much brightness you can bring to his day by stopping for a cup of coffee and a chat.
2. Give them a sense of purpose. Retiring from work may be nice, but jobs often give us a sense of purpose. Your senior may have lost that feeling if they are not active in things outside their home. Look for ways to encourage your senior to keep the loneliness away and give them back their life’s purpose.
3. Encourage a new hobby. New hobbies can keep Mom physically and socially active—two good ways to stave off loneliness. These hobbies can include a book club, knitting, or participating in community centre activities.
4. Join an exercise class. Staying active through walking and age-appropriate workouts prevents some illnesses and keeps your senior mentally fit. Group exercise classes are a great option to keep loneliness at bay while making new friends.
5. Make sure they eat healthy and stay active. Poor nutrition can lead to illness, which can then worsen emotional health. Encourage Mom and Dad to eat nutrient-dense foods, avoid too much sugar, and exercise. This will give them the best opportunity to remain healthy and enjoy life.
6. Suggest that they volunteer their time. Another way to raise emotional and mental health is to give back to others. Volunteering is an excellent way to help others while staying physically and mentally active. Talk with your loved one about what interests them and help them find ways to express that through volunteer opportunities.

Companions for Seniors Keep Loneliness at Bay

Help your aging parent ward off loneliness by spending time talking with them and encouraging them to maintain their health and volunteer. When you need additional support for them, seek out companions for seniors through Home Instead Hamilton. Our well-trained personal support workers understand how caring for aging adults makes a difference for families. Depend on us to provide your loved one with a tailored level of service, including companionship, personal support, light housekeeping, and cooking. Contact us today!  

Call us at (905) 521-5500 to schedule a no-obligation, in-home consultation. Learn more about the compassionate, quality senior care we deliver every day to families in Hamilton Mountain, Downtown Hamilton, Rosedale, Kings Forest, Binbrook, Meadowlands, Ancaster, and Dundas.