Social Isolation: Supplementing Senior Companionship with Digital Tools
Life often changes in dramatic and unexpected ways as you age. Some seniors find themselves face to face with complex healthcare issues. Others find themselves dealing with a diminishing social life and the feelings of loneliness that come as a result. In the face of emerging healthcare concerns, feelings of depression caused by social isolation often go unacknowledged and untreated. According to the CDC, 25% of seniors 65 or older will experience feelings of profound loneliness at some point in their journey. Loneliness, in turn, has physical repercussions. Social isolation increases an individual's chances of developing dementia by 50%. In addition, they are 32% more likely to have a stroke.
Fortunately, social isolation is extremely treatable once it is identified. By combining digital tools with good, old-fashioned interpersonal interaction and senior companionship, we can eradicate isolation-based depression directly at its source.
Leveraging Digital Technologies
Seniors who've chosen to age in place are most at-risk of experiencing the effects of social isolation. Without regular visits from friends and family, this group is particularly susceptible. In the absence of a persistent support system comprised of loved ones, however, modern digital technologies can help fill the resulting void.
Devices such as tablets, laptops, and mobile phones are portable and extremely adaptable to each individual's needs and situation. Under the guidance of a home caregiver or other professional, housebound seniors can learn to use technology as an avenue for social interaction. Apps like Google Duo, Zoom, or FaceTime can help connect elders to their friends and family via video chat. While it can't quite match the feeling of being in the same room as your loved ones, communicating via digital format is the next best thing and a thorough manner of social interaction in its own right.
Old Friends and New Faces
Leveraging technology effectively is more than just video conferencing. The same devices listed above are capable of so many functions that are beneficial to an isolated senior. From social media platforms where an individual can feel like part of a thriving community, to hobby-specific websites and message boards where the senior can exercise their passion and creativity, technology represents a powerful tool for seniors who've chosen to age in place.
Digital technology doesn't just reinforce your existing interests, hobbies, and relationships, however. It's also a great way for homebound seniors to learn new things and meet new people. Whether it's taking a virtual tour of your favorite museum, or discovering new friends with similar interests, digital technology is a bridge back to the world for those who require around-the-clock care or even just occasional senior companionship.
A Supplement to Companion Care
Technology is a lifeline for seniors struggling to age in place successfully, but there's no true substitute for one-on-one interaction. The best remedy for depressive symptoms stemming from social isolation is direct human contact. That's why Senior Helpers of the Greater Oklahoma City area offers senior companionship services tailor-made to give your loved one high-quality social interaction. When used in conjunction with the power of digital communication, senior companionship services can help combat the detrimental effects of social isolation.
To learn more about our senior care services, please contact Senior Helpers of Greater Oklahoma City today.