Loneliness in seniors is an issue for many families.
Are you lonely? If you are a senior, chances are the answer is yes. As we age, our lives become busier, and socialization becomes challenging.
We may work longer hours at our jobs, we might have children to care for, and later, we may be afraid to leave our homes because we’re worried about getting lost. And as a result, we’re less likely to get out with friends and meet new people.
Having friends to share time and experiences with can lift your spirits. It makes you feel more positive and leads to many additional benefits, such as improved mental and physical health.
How the Elderly Can Make Friends and Fight Loneliness
Loneliness is a normal part of aging, but it can be very difficult to deal with. Loneliness can make many seniors feel isolated, sad, and angry.
Loneliness among seniors is on the rise, especially among those over 75. This startling fact highlights the importance of communities in fighting loneliness and keeping our elders healthy and happy.
With increased attention to the issue of loneliness among seniors, many organizations have been established to help seniors fight loneliness in their daily lives.
Here are several tips on how the elderly can make friends and fight loneliness.
1. Stay Active – Getting outside in the sunshine will do wonders for your mood and mental health. You’ll also get to spend time with friends and family members who care about you.
2. Connect with Others – Take advantage of social events at your place of worship, volunteer at a senior center or hospital, or take a cooking class with other older adults you find interesting.
3. Get Support – Talking to a friend or family member about your feelings can be therapeutic for some people who feel lonely or depressed.
They may be able to help you deal with issues that are causing you anxiety, such as feeling like no one understands what it’s like to be old.
Support groups can help if you are having trouble finding the right caretaker for difficult tasks around the house. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if needed!
4. Try Online Dating – Older people often don’t meet other singles through traditional means like church or school events. Online dating sites, such as Match.com or eHarmony, offer an easy way to find potential dates that share your interests.
5. Join a Gym – A gym membership is one of the best ways to meet new people and make new friends. Whether looking for a workout partner or just a friend to share your favorite movie, gyms are popular places to meet people.
And if you’re looking for something more than that, there are plenty of clubs and organizations where you can find other seniors who enjoy fitness or want to learn about it themselves.
6. Join Free Classes – Take advantage of free classes offered by senior centers, adult education programs at local colleges, and senior centers (such as cooking classes).
7. Participate in an Online Forum – Find a forum where people share similar interests, such as Meetup’s “No Regrets” forum for those looking for social connections after divorce or cancer treatment.
Try the “Hugs & Kisses” forum for those who have lost someone close to them or the “Seniors Dancing” forum for those looking for dance partners in their area!
8. Join a Book Club – If you love reading and meeting new people, consider joining a book club! You’ll have the opportunity to explore new authors and genres and make new friends with people who share your love of books or reading in general. Plus, there are often free meals included at book clubs—who doesn’t love an excuse for some great food?
9. Become a Volunteer – Volunteer in your community, and you’ll be making friends and fighting loneliness.
We all know that volunteering is good for our health and well-being, but did you know it can also be good for our friendships?
When we volunteer, we interact with people who are different from us. We learn about what they care about and how they think about life.
We meet new people who might become our friends or even long-term partners. And we get out of our homes and into the world!
10. Get a Pet – Many people find their pets are like family members and don’t mind sharing their lives with other animals. Pets help seniors maintain a positive mental attitude and gain much-needed physical activity. Pets also provide companionship and love for the elderly, which can make them feel less lonely.
How Assisted Living and Memory Care Homes Help Seniors Make New Friends
Seniors who live in assisted living or memory care homes have more opportunities for social interaction than those who live alone.
Residents of these facilities can participate in events and programs that allow them to make new friends.
They may also be able to participate in activities that bring people together, such as board games, handicrafts, shopping, fishing trips, or relax and eat some ice cream.
Loneliness in Seniors - Conclusion
Sadly, seniors can develop loneliness anywhere as a result of their lifestyle. However, assisted living and memory care homes are communities where seniors get to grow old with compassion and comfort.
Senior care specialists look for ways to fight back against loneliness in seniors. They try to ensure that their communities are homey and comfortable for every resident.
There are many ways that you can help promote your senior loved one’s socialization and include them more in social events and plans. Please encourage them to make new friends, try some of the suggestions above, and contact Applewood Our House about memory care options, or other options.