Loneliness Can Lead to Depression

Socialization is Very Positive for Seniors

Can the lack of socialization and social support really effect an elder’s overall quality of life? How important is social support as a person ages?

Those elders with consistent social support from friends, neighbors, family, and care staff are testament to the positive aspects of social support which contributes to the psychological and physical health and wellness of our elderly. Social support from others can be important in defeating psychological problems such as depression and anxiety, along with some stress reduction.

Lack of socialization and/or accompanying social support can have a negative impact on an individual’s health and well being, especially our aging population.

Most seniors do not, and would not, choose isolation and loneliness versus spending time with “people presence” or care companions. Loneliness can lead to boredom, which can lead to depression.

Elderly clients of Home Care Partners are provided personalized, private-duty homecare services. While our day staff may be attending to many daily household chores and responsibilities, many seniors prefer to be left alone. This does NOT mean they prefer isolation. Some personalities are quiet, and enjoy watching TV, reading, knitting, and napping during their days at home. These seniors welcome helpful staff in their home – assisting with chores such as laundry, scheduling, medication reminders, and meal preparation. While they may be content with their household life, these seniors enjoy the presence of our homecare staff in their home.

Other clients may be more active, and enjoy getting out to visit friends and family, run errands, shop, luncheon gatherings, and participate in any number of senior-related programs at their local Senior Center. They also enjoy the companionship of our staff when running out to the local shopping mall, or the local pharmacy for medical items. Some enjoy simply sitting in the local library, quietly watching people and families as they come and go.

Many leisure social activities can contribute to an elder’s psychological well-being. Activities for seniors may include reminiscence groups, journal writing, book readings or book clubs, group exercise, singing groups, etc. Occasionally, I speak at a local senior social club. All the attendees come by for snacks, coffee & refreshments, and for the enjoyment of something to do every Wednesday afternoon. They raffle off lottery tickets, listen to music, and visit with other neighborhood seniors. There is a comradery amongst this group of volunteers…all enjoy to seeing and visiting with one another on a regular basis!

JD Miller

About JD Miller

John D. Miller is the founder/owner of Home Care Partners, LLC, a Massachusetts business providing private duty, personalized in-home assistance and companion care services to those needing help in daily activities and household functions. Phone: (781) 378-2164 Email: [email protected] Website: https://homecarepartnersma.com
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