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5 WAYS TO KEEP SENIORS SOCIALLY ACTIVE


5 WAYS TO KEEP SENIORS SOCIALLY ACTIVE

Fri Jul 26 2024 · 2 mins read
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Socializing is extremely important for seniors. Just how important?

Lack of socializing can sink mood and memory. It can damage cognition and speed
decline. It can affect mental health and cause depression. And because
depression can affect how we take care of ourselves, it can spiral into issues
with blood pressure, blood sugar, heart disease, and more.

Still, even knowing the importance of socializing, it can be hard to get seniors
to partake. Part of it is emotional — home just becomes more comfortable as we
age. But there are practical hurdles, too; mobility can be a social limiter, and
it’s hard to go places when driving is no longer an option.

How can you help? Family visits are important, but many families live far apart,
meaning you’ll have to strategize to get seniors out on a regular basis.

A few other ideas:

Address the driving issue: Traditional ride shares are a no-go for seniors
averse to technology. But some (Uber Assist, Go Go Grandparent, SilverRide)
allow people to reserve without an app; others will allow a third party to do
the reserving for seniors; still others provide specialists to help with
mobility issues and assistive devices. Coverage varies by area, so you’ll want
to check. For those outside the coverage area, local senior centers often
provide complimentary transportation to certain locations. And check the local
town hall to ask about town resources and to find out how other people are
handling the issue.

Hire an assistant: Fiercely independent seniors often balk at traditional
in-home caregivers they view as babysitters. But they’ll often welcome help with
specific tasks such as meal prep and cleaning. Such assistants have the happy
side effect of providing companionship and an available resource should the need
arise for more help. “My dad used to ask, “What do I need someone for?’” says
Jane. “But then we reframed it as help around the house. Now he has a guy come
in about three times a week to help him with the computer and a bunch of other
tasks. He gets a ton of stuff done and he loves the company.”

Schedule events: Getting out is only one issue in the way of socializing. Where
to go is another. Engaging passions (for theater, food, art, books, and more)
solves two problems, giving seniors both a place to go, and a crowd of people to
enjoy it with. Check out local theater subscriptions. Keep up to date on
farmer’s markets and food fairs. Look for bookstores that feature author
presentations with question-and-answer sessions. “My mom lives near an outdoor
concert venue and goes to rehearsals all the time,” says Lisa. “She loves it and
often meets new people there.” Just remember to handle transportation in
advance.

Tap into the community: The same local organizations that can connect you to
resources can be a resource themselves. Senior centers have everything from book
clubs to game nights. International and cultural organizations can connect
seniors to neighbors who share traditions and roots. And don’t forget to check
out local community bulletins with information on local (often free) happenings
such as on-the-common concerts, church events, and high school musical
performances scheduled just for seniors.

Hit the gym: Isolation and being sedentary go hand-in-hand. Senior-friendly
classes and personal training do double duty, getting elderly relatives up and
moving, and providing a friendly person to do it with. Check nearby gyms for
senior-friendly classes. Some hospitals can also point you to pertinent
resources. “My mom got a trainer after she could no longer walk with a group,”
says Diane. “It’s done wonders for her physical and mental health.”

These are a few out-of-the box strategies. Don’t forget the tried-and-true
resources like senior centers that often schedule events and classes just for
the purpose of getting seniors out.

Finally, when looking for help, make sure to check your benefits since more and
more are including support like coaches, consultants, and companions who can
point you to providers in your area.

And remember what an impact the help can have. Social isolation is a really big
problem for all of us, says a Cleveland Clinic geriatrician. “For older
individuals, it’s a bigger deal.”


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