2020 gave the world a taste of what it’s like to feel lonely and isolated. Unfortunately, many seniors face this issue every day. Though it may be difficult for older adults to interact with their peers or family members, COVID-19 made it even harder.
Fortunately, there are a few tips for reducing loneliness and isolation for seniors that may improve your loved one’s mental and physical health.
Encourage Visitors
Of course, a surefire way to help someone who is feeling lonely is to visit with them. But that may not always be possible if you’re a busy parent. Therefore, it can be helpful to arrange a schedule for family members and loved ones to visit.
This may seem like a hassle at first, but your elderly loved one will appreciate seeing their children and grandchildren and spending quality time with them.
Take Advantage of Technology
If a few relatives live out of state, teach your family member how to use Zoom, FaceTime, or any video-chat platform to help them stay connected.
Furthermore, your loved one may benefit from talking with other seniors online via chat rooms or social media. Social media is also a wonderful way to connect with the world without ever leaving home!
Explore Pet Adoption
If your elderly loved one can take care of a pet, try to explore pet adoption as a way to help them fight isolation.
Owning a pet can help seniors live a longer, happier life. Pets boost our production of “happy hormones” and help us feel less stressed.
Ask your loved ones how they feel about adopting a pet and if they feel ready to take care of, play with, and nurture them.
Consider In-Home Care
If you’re concerned about your loved one, you may consider utilizing in-home care services. A professional caregiver can help take care of their medical needs right in the comfort of their home. But be sure you know what to look for when choosing an in-home care provider!
The above tips for reducing loneliness and isolation for seniors may help your loved one feel more fulfilled, happier, and content with their daily life. Talk to them and learn what they need and want for a quality home life.
Mom on the go in Holy Toledo 
This is such an important topic to address, especially since the pandemic brought on even more isolation. I found some additional interesting ideas in this article as well (like a chat bench!): https://www.responsive-homecare.com/combat-senior-loneliness/.
This is a great additional resource on the topic, thank you for sharing!