Most definitely, and there’s research to back it up. A Swedish study that followed 17,000 healthy men and women for six years revealed that those people who were most isolated and lonely (low social contact) were nearly four times as likely to die during the study as those with strong social contact and support.
However, there is always room for improvement and nobody is in any doubt that there are elderly individuals in our communities living lonely lives with little or no social contact. With this in mind anytime is a good time to focus on the value of offering a helping hand to senior loved ones or neighbours as they age. The ageing process should be viewed as a positive process and there are many ways for older adults to improve their physical, mental, social and even financial fitness as they age.
In a US organised survey senior Americans were asked to share their secrets for healthy social aging. Here’s what they suggested:
See the World/Expand Your Mind. After a lifetime of raising children and working, older people love to travel – to see new things and experience new cultures. TIP: Begin to plan a trip. Half the excitement is in the planning!
Laugh Loud & Often. A good sense of humour is essential. Start the day off on a light note by reading the `Comic’ or `Trivia’ sections from the daily newspapers.
Volunteer. Be generous with the most important thing you own – your time. A good place to start is the local community centre or parish hall. Consider a local nursing home or youth club.
Seek Inspiration/Keep the Faith. Belief in a higher power is of paramount importance according to those surveyed. A local Church or parish centre is also a great place to meet new friends!
If you have any questions you would like answered please e-mail Noeleen Cronin on info@homeinstead.ie. Noleen is trained as a nurse and specialised in elderly care before joining Home Instead Senior Care.
For further information on senior care issues and to keep up to date with Home Instead Senior Care news please click on the following link: http://www.homeinstead.ie/keep_in_touch.aspx.
