The University of Michigan ran a study and found that almost 23 percent of today’s senior citizens are socially isolated. Isolation isn’t good. It’s been found that people who are isolated have greater health risks than those who are socially active.
Caregiver in Ardmore PA: Isolation is Harming
Women were found to be more isolated than men. Those who did experience isolation were more likely to contract a virus like the flu or a cold than those who socialize often. They have a higher risk of high blood pressure and early-onset dementia. Mental health is also impacted by social isolation.
One study found that being socially isolated is the equivalent of smoking three-quarters of a pack of cigarettes each day. It’s worse than being obese. Could your mom be among those affected by isolation?
Visits From Friends and Family Are Few and Far Between
How often does your mom have visitors? If you only stop by once a month and she doesn’t see anyone else, she’s isolated. Does she have friends in the area or have they moved to other states or cities? Is she active in her community and has the opportunity to make new friends or is she more of a hermit who never leaves her house?
Hearing Loss Makes It Hard for Her to Join Conversations
If your mom is dealing with hearing loss, she is going to struggle to hear conversations. In a crowded room, the chance of hearing what someone says is low. If she can’t hear, she can’t join the conversation. Hearing aids might help, but it may not restore her hearing fully. Plus, the cost may be too much for her. Insurance doesn’t always cover the cost of hearing aids.
She Withdraws From Social Activities
If she stays hidden in her house and never talks to neighbors or joins local events and activities, she’s isolated. If a relative is hosting a family gathering, does your mom want to go or does she come up with an excuse? When was the last time she went to a party or gathering and didn’t hide in a corner? If you get her to do, does she leave earlier than expected?
She’s Depressed
Your mom may be depressed for several reasons. However, social isolation is often linked to depression. Other signs of depression are sleep disturbances, agitation, feelings of sadness that extend for weeks and months, and a lack of interest in things she usually enjoys.
Isolation doesn’t need to be the norm. Talk to a senior care agency today. Ask about companionship visits. The experts can help you determine the best schedule for preventing the loneliness and isolation your mom is experiencing.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring a Caregiver in Ardmore, PA, please talk to the caring staff at Better Care Home Health Services LLC today. Serving individuals and their families in Philadelphia, Delaware, Montgomery and Bucks counties. Call Today: (267) 766-5218
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Better Care Home Health Services is a family-owned agency dedicated to providing excellent and comprehensive home health care to individuals and families of Philadelphia, Delaware, Montgomery and Bucks counties. We are honored that God has blessed us with the opportunity to positively impact and change people’s lives. It is our mission to ensure that we provide the very best of care to our clients.
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