Community and connection are essential parts of human life. While everyone has their own journey, having close family and friend relationships helps bring joy and meaning to life. Unfortunately, many seniors struggle with loneliness and isolation. As they lose friends and family members move away, they can feel like their network is gone. Combatting isolation in senior living communities is a primary focus of many organizations.
Buckner Retirement Services promotes a healthy, active, and engaged senior living lifestyle in our Texas communities. Call 214.227.7182 to find out if our communities could help your loved one find new connections and purpose.
Senior Isolation Is a Problem
Nearly 25% of senior adults 65 and older are considered to be socially isolated. Isolation and loneliness can contribute to serious medical conditions like dementia, stroke, depression, and heart failure. Social isolation in seniors can also lead to an increase in the need for hospitalization, a higher risk of falls, and a lower quality of life.
Staying connected with others and engaged in activities that bring meaning and purpose can help combat these negative effects. A senior living community can help organize activities and promote socialization among residents, providing a supportive environment for seniors to thrive.
Addressing Senior Living Loneliness
Combatting isolation in senior living communities is often a top priority. Some ways they do this include:
- Creating a welcoming environment – A warm and inviting atmosphere can encourage social interaction among residents. This can be achieved through comfortable common areas, regular events, and friendly staff.
- Offering a variety of activities – From game nights to art classes to exercise groups, senior living communities provide a range of activities to engage residents and help them form new connections.
- Encouraging family and friend visits – Many communities have easy visitation policies, making it easy for loved ones to come and spend time with their senior family members.
- Providing transportation services – Lack of transportation can contribute to isolation. Senior living communities often offer transportation services to help residents attend appointments, run errands, and socialize outside of the community.
- Promoting volunteer opportunities – Volunteering has been shown to improve mental and physical health in seniors. Senior living communities may partner with local organizations to provide opportunities for residents to give back to their community.
Without the organization and convenience of senior living communities, it can be difficult to coordinate engaging activities and opportunities for seniors. The support and resources provided by these communities can greatly improve the social connection and well-being of senior residents.
Other Ways of Combatting Loneliness in Senior Living
There are also other ways seniors can combat loneliness and isolation. These include:
- Utilizing technology – With the rise of social media and video calling platforms, it has become easier than ever for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, even if they live far away.
- Joining local clubs or organizations – Seniors can join groups based on their interests, such as book clubs or hobby groups. This can provide a sense of community and belonging outside of the senior living community.
- Participating in religious or spiritual activities – Many seniors find comfort and connection through religious or spiritual practices. Senior living communities often offer on-site services for various faiths.
If your loved one is living alone, it may be time to consider a retirement community. Talk with them about the ways of combatting isolation in senior living and how it can improve their overall well-being.
Schedule a Tour at Buckner Retirement Services Today
Our engaging team understands the importance of community and connection in senior living. Our vibrant communities offer a range of social and recreational activities to encourage residents to form new relationships and find joy in their daily lives. Contact us online today or at 214.227.7182 to schedule a tour and see how our communities can provide a supportive environment for your loved one.