We become accustomed to having friends and family around us throughout our lives, making it easy to take companionship for granted. Many people lose contact with loved ones as they age, and some may die, making it tough to interact with friends and family in the digital age. As a result, older people are frequently secluded.
Continue reading to understand why companionship is important for aging seniors, social engagement in general health, and the advantages of senior companionship services.
Why Elderly Companionship Matters
If you’re concerned about an older family member’s well-being, you’re not alone. Studies have shown that isolation increases the risk of health problems, particularly among seniors.
According to one study from Johns Hopkins University, loneliness and a lack of socialization is a leading cause of premature death in seniors. It’s even more dangerous than obesity, which is more commonly associated with increased mortality risk. Loneliness and social isolation greatly increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, heart attack and stroke, and even dementia.
An active social life has been shown to have a wide range of health benefits:
- According to a study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, social engagement benefits seniors’ overall health, with the greatest reduction in mortality risk seen in men with the least active social lives.
- The study also found that social engagement significantly affects the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
- In addition to improving cognition and memory, social interaction has also been linked to lower cortisol levels.
The Benefits of Elderly Companionship
Finding the time to catch up with friends or family members over the holidays or on the weekends can be difficult, especially for seniors. Older adults tend to lead busier lives, and often don’t have many opportunities to socialize.
Hiring a senior companion can help fill that role. From going to appointments to playing bingo or attending a concert, older adults who hire a companion will find that they’re able to meet their social needs without sacrificing their independence.
Even something as simple as having someone to talk to can make a significant difference in the overall well-being of seniors. When they don’t feel like they’re alone, they’re more likely to take better care of themselves and their health. There are many benefits to elderly companionship:
- A person’s mood can greatly improve by having someone to talk to.
- The risk of developing depression can be greatly reduced.
- Senior companionship is also recommended for those who have suffered from a recent loss, as it can provide a much-needed source of emotional support.
- Social engagement also promotes physical activity and exercise.
Senior companionship services can also provide emotional and physical support as seniors age, and help keep them safe and independent. From companions to full-time care, it’s important to take the time to find the right fit for your aging loved one.
Conclusion
Seniors are at risk of social isolation, which can play a major role in their overall health and well-being. However, seniors who have companionship can greatly improve their mental and physical health. An active social life can also lead to better memory and cognition, which can help seniors age more gracefully.
Choosing the right companion or senior care provider can be difficult, especially if you’re not sure of what they’re looking for. Two things to keep in mind are your loved one’s personality and needs and the right style of companionship.
If you’re looking for companionship care services for your elderly loved ones, Recycled Teenager Senior Services can help! We provide companionship in a light-hearted atmosphere by singing, dancing, laughing, teasing, LOL, exercising, stretching, and sometimes it only needs a little encouragement to bring out a great sense of silliness. Get in touch with us today!
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