Ways for Seniors to Beat Loneliness

For some elderly people, their social interactions may only consist entirely of visiting the doctor’s office or the bank and grocery store during their normal errands. For seniors who are still mobile enough to get around, activities like volunteering for a nonprofit, a school, or some kind of litter cleanup crew can be a satisfying and rewarding way to feel useful, give something back to the community, and engage with people from all walks of life, not to mention form new social bonds with like-minded people.

Many seniors still regularly attend church, and while places of worship are of course anchors of personal and spiritual engagement where they can practice their faith, they also make for places of social gathering, where the congregation can meet and embrace as a community and help meet the needs of the other attendees.

Professional home care aides can be key connection points for house bound seniors. Not only can they take them out to run errands or visit friends, they can provide a social function through listening to their care charge and simply being there with them and engaging in conversation.

Senior community centers, not to be confused with senior living residences, can provide nurturing and satisfying social relationships with daily activities that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being in a safe, friendly environment.

Additionally, experts agree that Americans everywhere can do better in reaching out to the elderly and making them feel valued and relevant. Adult children, as well as younger grandchildren, can engage with seniors as a wise resource, drawing upon their lifetime of knowledge to aid them in the present.