As your aging mother, father, grandmother, grandfather, etc. enter their golden years, sadly, loneliness risks increase. Several health issues can result from loneliness including memory loss, obesity, falls, slips, and more. Is there a method of preventing loneliness? There are, in fact, many.
We’re going to provide just a handful of ways to stave off social isolation and loneliness. Once you know what can be done, you’ll stand a better chance of assisting your loved one in steering clear of the negative effects loneliness can have on a mind and body.
Attend Social Activities
Dinners, a movie, concerts in the park, dances, and more are activities that retirees can participate in together. Go solo or convince a friend to attend together. New friends will be discovered at activities such as these.
Maintain a Positive Body Image
In no way are we suggesting that a specific body image is most appropriate for everyone concerned. Your loved one must feel comfortable in their own skin, however, if they’re going to get out and about in public. Loneliness can sometimes be a result of your loved one not wanting to interact with others because they feel embarrassed about how they look. If they can do their best to maintain a healthy weight, get a haircut regularly, go to the dentist, etc., there’s a better chance of them having a more positive attitude.
If they exercise to achieve a positive body image, they’ll also be helping to prevent health issues like strokes, heart disease, diabetes, and more.
Activities and Hobbies
Your loved one is more at risk of becoming lonely and bored if they stay home day after day, all alone. To prevent loneliness, encourage them to get involved in local activities or take up a hobby. The risk of loneliness and isolation is reduced when your loved one feels a sense of purpose.
Pets Provide Companionship
To stave off loneliness, many of today’s older adults adopt a pet. Not only are they excellent companions, they also give unconditional love and – particularly if they can be walked outside – provide a reason for your aging loved one to get out in the fresh air and get some exercise.
Provide Support
Retirement-age adults are far more likely to be lonely if they have recently lost a spouse or companion. Do all you can, particularly during these times, to support them and assure them that you (and the rest of the family) are still there.
Take a few minutes out of your day to call or, better yet, converse face-to-face or online. When you can, spend a day or two with your loved one. Go shopping. See a movie with them. Put together a jigsaw puzzle with them. Whatever entertains and engages both of you together.
Loneliness Doesn’t Have To Happen – Socialize at Discovery Village At Palm Beach Gardens
With all of the field trips, special events, and other activities scheduled every month at Discovery Village At Palm Beach Gardens, your loved one’s calendar will be full to the brim – if that’s what they choose. Just as an example, the rest of our 2021 community events include the Captain’s Table, Professional Networking: Bourbon Tasting, and a Holiday Gala Charity Event.
Call with any questions you may have or, better yet, schedule a tour. There’s simply no reason for your loved one to be lonely when there are so many socializing opportunities here at Discovery Village At Palm Beach Gardens.
