Have you noticed that your elderly loved one seems more withdrawn from the world around her? It could be that she’s lost someone (or several someones) who were near and dear to her and her people to connect with. It might also be that loved ones and friends have moved away, making it difficult to connect with them now. Or she might have mobility or health issues that make enjoying social interactions more difficult.
Whatever the case may be, if your loved one is feeling isolated or lonely, why not suggest that her 2025 New Year’s Resolution will be to get out and try a few new ways of connecting with her community?
Why Connections Are So Important for Seniors
It’s not about being popular or having a wide circle of influence. Connections are about improving overall life quality. From better mental health to physical health improvements, building relationships, finding friendships, and connecting with others are some of the best things your senior can do for her health and her quality of life.
Here are just a few benefits of a good social schedule:
- Improved cognitive functions such as memory and problem-solving
- Reduced risk of developing certain health conditions such as heart disease and cancer
- Later onset of cognitive diseases such as dementia
- Increased feelings of belonging and value in the community
- Better emotional health and ability to deal with normal stressors
Four Places Your Senior Can Build Connections
There are more ways to connect now than ever for seniors, it’s just a matter of knowing where to look. Here are five great places for your senior to discover others to connect with.
Senior Centers
Many communities have buildings that house multiple classes and workshops specifically geared for the elderly. Some great benefits to checking out a senior center are that they are equipped to accommodate most physical limitations and they will let your loved one meet others her same age.
Non-Profit Organizations
What do most non-profits need more than anything? Volunteers! Volunteering is a great way for your senior to connect with others who share the same passions.
Community Classes
Now is a great time for your loved one to take a class and learn a new skill. It also exposes her to more people she can build connections with.
Online Communities
Many people love connecting online and building true friendships over the internet.
Companion Care at Home Can Help Your Senior Connect
While creating more connections is a great New Year’s Resolution, one important factor to remember is your loved one’s personality and need for social connections. Some people need lots of friends and connections to feel fulfilled, while others only want one or two key people in their life. For some, connecting builds energy, and for others, it can drain them. If your loved one struggles with connecting with strangers, consider having a companion care at home provider be his first person to connect with. Companion care at home providers can help your loved one safely and slowly build fulfilling relationships. She might find it easier to talk and enjoy activities when it’s one-on-one instead of in a group environment.
Helping your loved one explore different connecting opportunities in the new year is a great way to help her make 2025 her best year yet!
If you or an aging loved one needs companion care at home in Oakwood, GA, call Home Care Matters. We can answer your questions about home care and help you learn more about options for care. Call today (770) 965-4004.
Valerie has the unique experience with home care as she has experienced it from both ends of the spectrum, as a caregiver and as needing care herself as a cancer survivor. Valerie says, “Taking care of someone you love is a physically, mentally and demanding labor of love.Taking care of my mom was the hardest thing I have ever done. It has given me an insight and perspective not many people understand unless you are doing it or have done it.I loved taking care of my mom.I love helping others take care of their love ones too.And now that I’ve been sick, it’s given me a whole new level of empathy and understanding for those who are sick and need help.”
Valerie’s schedule varies daily, but she loves visiting with our clients, families, caregivers, our network partners and being in the office.Says Valerie, “Every day is different, but I wake up excited about what we do, inspired by our team, clients and caregivers.I strive to be a resource to the community.I love my team and I love what we do every day. I like to think my mom would be proud.”
You can reach Valerie by email (Valerie@homecarematters.com) or in our office (770.965.4004).
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