The relationship between strength and physical activity has always
been well-documented, but several studies have also shown stronger
connection between socializing and physical and mental well-being for
old people.
While social interaction is important for everyone, irrespective of
age, old people can be more vulnerable to isolation. A lot of seniors
have spent a good part of their lives interacting with others – be it
raising children or meeting people at work. After reaching retirement,
and with kids leaving the house, the chances for socialization normally
decrease, particularly if the person has to rely on other people for
transport.
Here are a few reasons why seniors must not be stuck at home:
Mental health: Signs such as memory problems and
depression affect several seniors. It is believed that going out often
and interacting with other people can reduce both these issues. Research
shows that social contact and physical activity are very effective in
improving the quality of life and the person’s mood. In fact, living an
active lifestyle affects the psychological health of a person
considerably.
Improved nutrition: Proper intake of nutrition is
very important for senior citizens, but healthy habits are difficult to
maintain while living alone. Seniors who travel to the hospitals or
interact with people of similar ages discover the importance of a
balanced diet. Moreover, people are also likely to eat more when they
are in a friendly and lively environment.
Better physical health: Several studies have
revealed that a good social life can lower blood pressure, improve the
immune system, and decrease physical pain which is reinforced due to
depression.
Going out is extremely important for people of all ages and
especially for the elderly. Continuing to attend social gatherings,
medical appointments, and the like assists old people in staying active
and promotes a sense of happiness and wellbeing. This also keeps them up
to date with the happenings in the society. It is very easy for seniors
to slip into a lonely, self contained world and when this happens they
risk losing out on their personal identity.
How Can Old People stay connected?
A lot of seniors have caregivers who occasionally interact with them,
but this is normally not enough. Although it is comforting for old
people to know that their basic requirements are being met, proper
social interaction comprises of participating or engaging with others,
mainly with friends.
Here are a few avenues that can help the elderly stay connected socially:
- Join groups and clubs
- Volunteer
- Stay connected with family and friends
- Move into retirement communities
- Get a pet
- Learn new skills
- Attend a church
- Become internet savvy
Safe Transportation:
One of the biggest reasons why most seniors end up restricted inside
their houses is lack of safe transportation. They either don’t know how
to drive or are medically impaired to sit inside a normal car. For such
people, there are several companies that offer medical transportation.
This form of transit has numerous benefits. For instance, such medical
vans are equipped with equipment such as I.V. units and heart paddles.
Some medical transport vehicles also come with professional paramedics
and registered nurses on board who can assist in saving a senior’s life
in case of an emergency.
These companies are normally privately run and have to be hired by
the patient or his/her family. Such form of travel benefits patients who
require medical equipment or supervision during a long journey. The
patient can greatly benefit from traveling in medical coaches created
for upmost care and comfort, and to relieve the family members from the
worries of constant medical supervision.
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