Loneliness is a discomfort that occurs when people have reduced or no social relationships. More often, it's normal to experience this kind of discomfort, and it’s normal to fight loneliness; however, when the feeling is persistent, it can be detrimental to one's mental and overall well-being. For example, according to the CDC, adults with chronic loneliness have a 50% risk of dementia and a 29% risk of heart disease. Other common effects of persistent loneliness are:
- Poor sleeping habits
- Depression
- Lack of confidence
Winter can be distressing for seniors. This is because the night falls early and lasts for extended hours. The early sunset disrupts the seniors' daily routine and minimizes outdoor activities. Moreover, long night hours can be a constant reminder of solitude to some seniors leading to prolonged episodes of loneliness.
However, some practices can help seniors fight loneliness and isolation when the sun sets early. Here are some effective strategies to fight loneliness from Senior Helpers Whittier-Downey.
Adopting a Companion Animal
Owning a pet is linked to several health benefits. One of the common reasons why most households own a pet is to help manage to fight loneliness and depression. However, before adopting one, the senior's caregiver should ask for a vet's recommendation to choose a pet that will suit a senior's needs. It will also help reduce the chance of bringing a sick or harmful animal home.
Taking on a Hobby
A hobby is an activity done regularly and consistently for pleasure or relaxation during one's free time. When one partakes in an activity they enjoy, their bodies release endorphins that bring happiness to fight loneliness.
Therefore, indulging in low- commitment hobbies such as painting, writing, playing games, reading, or listening to music can help seniors kill boredom and fight loneliness during the long nights of winter.
Participating in Virtual Meetups
Thanks to technology, virtual platforms such as Zoom and Twitch can replicate the real-life contact most people yarn for and offer a salve for isolation. Seniors can sign up for virtual book clubs, choirs, or online exercise, among other options, to promote a healthy mindset and boost productivity.
Developing a Routine to Fight Loneliness
A routine refers to a series of activities done at a particular time. It provides the framework within which people live and conduct their daily activities. Lack of routine can:
- Exacerbate feelings of distress
- Poor sleep patterns
- Have an impact on one's mental health that could, in turn, lead to social withdrawal
A well-designed routine plan can help seniors develop a sense of normalcy and focus through challenging times.
Improving the Lighting
Good lighting, whether natural or artificial, plays a vital role in any space. Beyond its functional and aesthetic purposes, research shows that lighting quality can impact a person's mood and energy levels. For example, bright light with tones of yellow can heighten positive emotions, and blue light can make a person feel more energetic.
However, insufficient lighting is linked to a range of ill-health effects. Some of the expected results of poor lighting are:
- Eyestrain
- Headaches
- Low energy levels
- Depression can lead to self-isolation
- Poor sleep patterns
Therefore, during the longer nights of winter, caregivers should ensure the seniors' homes are always well-lit.
Regular Meditation
Meditation involves using mental and physical techniques to focus or clear the mind. While there are various meditation styles, they all have a wide range of psychological benefits. By practicing meditation, one can:
- Reduce negative emotions
- Gain a new outlook on stressful situations
- Elevate patience and tolerance
- Improve sleep patterns
Meditating often can help seniors develop mindfulness and manage triggers of undesirable impulses.
If you are looking for in-home care services for your loved one, we can help. Senior Helpers Whittier-Downey is a licensed and insured company that seeks to offer the best and the most comprehensive in-home care services to seniors around Whittier, Downey, Pico Rivera, and Bell Gardens.
We offer a wide range of services, including companionship, personal care, and specialized care for seniors with Dementia, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and other chronic conditions. Contact us, Senior Helper Whittier-Downey, for more details.