Research has shown that seniors are at greater risk of social isolation, meaning reduced connections to their communities and other people, such as family and friends. Isolation leads to loneliness and depression, both of which negatively affect physical and mental health. Combating social isolation is one of the goals of senior recreational programs at all six of the Buckner Retirement Services locations in Texas. In fact, Buckner is committed to supporting their residents in leading their best lives.
If you are interested in learning about the kinds of resources for senior isolation that Buckner Retirement Services offers, call 214.227.7182 to learn more from one of our staff. Community and online activities of all kinds can draw seniors out of their isolation to enjoy laughter, conversation, and human connection.
Facts About Loneliness Among Seniors
Some concerning data shows that about half of people over 60 experience social isolation, which leads to chronic loneliness in about 35% of that population. Living in a community setting such as Buckner Retirement Services has a significant positive impact on loneliness. Seniors who are in long-term care without community-based programs are twice as likely to experience loneliness than those who live in senior communities.
If you know a senior who has any of the risk factors for loneliness below, talk to them about options to help them connect more.
- Loss of a spouse or significant other
- Being a caregiver for a spouse or family member who is ill or infirm
- Loss of driver’s license
- No access to transportation
- Financial insecurity
- Poor health and/or decreased mobility
These conditions, when they lead to loneliness, increase a senior’s risk of:
- Depression
- Substance misuse
- Cognitive decline or acceleration of existing dementia
- High blood pressure
- Obesity
- Heart disease
Loneliness is a significant concern for many families of seniors. There are resources for combating social isolation that can help extend life expectancy and quality of life for older adults.
Activities and Programs for Seniors to Combat Loneliness
There are many activities and resources for senior isolation. Some ideas below may help spark interest for you or a senior adult you care about.
- Adopting a pet – Though pets are not a replacement for human connection, they are loving companions and can improve quality of life and combat loneliness.
- Volunteering – Bringing your skills to bear as a volunteer brings the satisfaction of working toward a common, meaningful goal. You can volunteer either in person—such as tutoring kids in need—or from home, such as making fundraising calls for your favorite non-profit.
- Learning opportunities – Taking a class or workshop in person or remotely can connect you to other curious seniors interested in lifelong learning and keep your mind supple.
- Working for a crisis hotline – This work can be done from home and is profoundly important and meaningful. See if your local women’s shelter or other service organization needs help with the phones.
- Online socializing – In-person is always preferable, but there are communities online that are fully vetted and overseen for security. You might enjoy support groups and special-interest groups that meet on Zoom, online games where you play opposite other actual people remotely, or simply having morning coffee on Facetime with your favorite cousin who lives 2000 miles away.
- Walk with people – You can take walks with friends or even join walking groups to meet new people. Sometimes, having a goal or activity is a great way to motivate people to get together.
The Buckner locations are all pet friendly, support seniors in their interests, offer transportation to meet-ups, classes, or volunteer opportunities, and provide their own programs to keep residents engaged and active. From art and exercise classes to interest groups like book clubs, you can stay youthful by developing and maintaining relationships and being physically and mentally active.
Schedule a Tour at Buckner Retirement Services Today to Begin Combating Social Isolation
Buckner Retirement Services prides itself on operating according to these principles: connection, independence, purpose, security, and service. Connection is first on the list because we understand that staying connected helps seniors hold onto independence, have a sense of purpose, feel secure in their well-being, and have the bandwidth to do acts of service for others, thus amplifying their own feelings of worth and contentment.
Call Buckner Retirement Services at 214.227.7182 and speak to one of our staff about our programs to help seniors combat loneliness. You can also complete this online form and we will reach out to you.