4 Benefits of Companionship for Seniors
Getting older doesn’t mean we have to (or should) be alone. Staying involved in our community and keeping up with friends is necessary for people of any age — including senior citizens. In fact, staying social can help us fight off various physical and mental health conditions. And spending time with people we love is just fun!
Here are four reasons why companionship for seniors is so important.
1. Fight loneliness and depression.
As we (and our loved ones) age, we may retire, lose a spouse, or have children who move away. These events have a major impact on our parents’ and grandparents’ daily routines and support circles. For example, your loved one won’t interact with coworkers every day at the office when they retire. And losing a family member (or even watching them move away) can cause grief and loneliness to settle in.
While you should give your loved one space to grieve their loss or adjust to retirement, don’t forget that prolonged isolation can increase their risk of depression. Loneliness affects 35% of adults in the United States between ages 60 and 69, as well as 25% of adults over 70. But by spending time with an empathetic companion, your loved one can feel supported and cared for — not helpless or alone.
2. Stay active in their community.
Just because your parent or grandparent is getting older, that doesn’t mean they have to sit at home alone. After all, you’re never too old to have fun and enjoy companionship! Reaching out and staying social lets seniors get out of the house, add a little activity to their day, and connect with friends.
Scheduling weekly lunches, going to the movies, and making other plans will help your loved one stay active in their community, church, and social groups. Plus, they’ll keep their mind and memory fresh by sharing the activities they love with the people they love. If your parent or grandparent is unable to drive themselves to social events, they can get a ride from an in-home care companion.
3. Protect their physical and mental health.
Our emotional health matters as much as our physical health — and the two often go hand in hand. For example, a walk around the neighborhood might just seem like physical activity. But for your loved one, walking with a friend might give them a chance to talk about how they’re feeling and connect on an emotional level.
Social interaction will help your loved one stay active and engaged. But companionship for seniors can also prevent various physical and mental health issues, such as:
- Cognitive decline and dementia
- Depression and anxiety
- Higher risk of mortality
- Cardiovascular disease
- And more
4. Share a connection with others.
Some of us are more introverted (or extroverted) than others, but all humans need at least a little social interaction. And that doesn’t change as we get older! Sharing a meal, listening to music, or enjoying coffee with a friend are all great ways for your loved one to connect with others.
If your parent or grandparent wants to live on their own, but they need help getting around (and outside of) the house, an in-home caregiver can assist them. This companion will get to know them and become a genuine friend — without making your loved one feel like a burden.
Companionship for seniors is essential to their physical, mental, and social wellness. By forming connections with others, your parent and grandparent can thrive — even if they live alone.
You may reach a point where you need help providing for your loved one. And that’s okay. A companion can supplement your primary caregiving so you can run errands or recharge with some alone time. What’s more, your loved one will be able to stay safe and independent at home while getting much-needed social interaction.
Safe-T Home Care is an in-home care agency in Monticello, Indiana. We provide transportation, personal care, and other services so your loved ones can stay safe and independent at home. For more information, please visit our website or like us on Facebook.