Senior Care News

Preventing Social Isolation in Winter

Elderly Care in Loudonville OH

Colder weather seems to lead to more isolation for elderly loved ones for a variety of reasons. Maybe it’s just too gloomy to go out, or possibly your loved one is a little more down during the colder months. Regardless of the cause, isolation can lead to feelings of depression and to health problems, so as a family caregiver it’s important to figure out how to ensure that your loved one isn’t isolated this winter.

Arrange for Home Care Services

Elder care providers can come to your loved one’s home and offer help for everything from personal care services to simple companionship. Take a look at your loved one’s needs and what you’re able to do for him during the busier winter months. Senior care providers can help him to get to appointments or do his grocery shopping when you’re not able to do those things for him. Engaging in regular activities can help him to feel less isolated, even if he still doesn’t get out often.

Reach Out to Neighbors and Other Relatives

It’s a great idea to reach out to neighbors, friends, and other relatives who may live closer to your loved one and ask them to look in on your loved one during more inclement weather. If you’re not able to get there to check on him in person yourself, it’s important that someone who is close by can check on him for you. This is especially important in cases where the power could be going out or your loved one has health conditions. Even if your loved one just needs a visit for a bit, this can help a lot.

Contact Local Service Providers

Contact local senior centers to see if they have any services that can help your loved ones to feel less isolated during the winter months. Often your loved one may have friends who spend colder months in warmer climates, and this can cause his normal routine to become disrupted. Getting involved in new activities can help your loved one to meet new people and find new interests that keep him active when he might otherwise have stayed home alone.

Arrange Transportation for Your Loved One

A definite problem during colder months can be transportation for your loved one, especially if you’re not able to be there yourself. In-home care providers can help with this, and some agencies also offer safe transportation for elderly loved ones. Do some research on the options available in your area so that you know who to call when your loved one is in need of transportation help.

Keeping your loved one from feeling isolated during colder months can help to keep his spirits up, which can be a very important part of maintaining good mental health.

If you are considering hiring elderly care services near Loudonville, Ohio, call the caring staff at Central Star Home Health at (419) 610-2161.  Providing services for families in Mansfield, Lexington, Ashland, Bellville, Crestline, Galion, Loudonville, Mt. Gilead, Shelby, Wooster and the surrounding areas.

Source
http://www.webmd.com/mental-health/news/20130325/isolation-loneliness-may-raise-death-risk-for-elderly

Stephen Sternbach

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