Caregivers in Omaha NE
America is a culture of diversity. Within its boundaries, there are cultures that live in multi-generational homes, others that consider the elder the head of the household, and still others that find thousands of miles spanning the distance between children and parents. Nearly one in three older Americans live alone. By the age of 75, almost-half of all women will find themselves in that category.
Research suggests that social interaction is vital to health and well-being. Isolation poses severe heath risks. Social isolation has been shown to increase depression and dementia.
How to Help
“A stranger is just a friend I haven’t met yet.”—Will Rogers. Change and loss have a tendency to cause less social interaction among those who feel their world is caving in. If left unattended, these individuals can find themselves alone more than in the company of others. As a family caregiver, you can help widen their social circle
- Volunteer. This provides a great opportunity for your parent to give back or pay it forward. Not only does it provide companionship and community involvement, it instills a sense of purpose at a time when their sense of self-worth may be diminishing. Senior Corp is a group that connects those 55 and over with people and organizations that need them the most.
- Support Groups. These groups provide a social circle specific to certain needs and events happening in a person’s life. If your loved one is experiencing a chronic illness, joining a support group associated with that specific disease offers support and information.
- Senior Community Center. As people age, their social circle tends to diminish. With retirement, the social circle derived from work was left behind. The children and their visiting friends have left home. This may very well be the first time in a long time that they have lived alone. Senior Community Centers are gathering places for people going through much the same circumstances. They offer classes, shared meals and social outings.
- Family and Friends. Inviting family and friends over to your parent’s home once a month fills a space that can become very quiet. Consider a different themed potluck once a month. A Hawaiian theme could include pulled pork, sushi, tropical drinks, Hawaiian music and your loudest Hawaiian shirt or dress.
- Home Care Providers. These professionals not only provide assistance with the daily activities of living, they also provide that all –important companionship.
Source
https://www.nia.nih.gov/about/living-long-well-21st-century-strategic-directions-research-aging/research-suggests-positive
https://www.cfah.org/hbns/2011/socially-active-older-adults-have-slower-rates-of-health-declines
If you or an aging loved one are considering caregivers in Omaha, NE, please contact the caring staff at Seniors Helping Seniors® Greater Omaha at (402) 215-0308 today.