4 Tips to Help Seniors to Stay Connected During the 2020 Holiday Season
For many, the holiday season calls for a time of celebration surrounded by loved ones and joyous memories. Unfortunately, due to the ongoing pandemic, seniors may not be able to travel to visit long-distance family members or even visit nearby family. What’s more, is that this isolation during the holidays can create an increased risk of loneliness which can lead older adults to depression.
How to Stay Connected this Holiday Season
Although seniors may not be able to physically visit their loved ones for the holidays, there are many steps they can take to stay connected to family and friends and avoid any risk of feeling alone. Here are some ways that you can help your senior loved one feel connected to others this holiday season:
- Strengthen Existing Relationships
Last year, an AARP survey found that one in three older adults said they lacked regular companionship and 41% reported feeling isolated. With the holidays approaching, now is the time to strengthen your existing relationships with family and friends. Make a daily list of people you’d like to catch up with via phone or video chat. Not only will you feel better after talking to a friend or family member, but it will likely be uplifting to them as well.
- Utilize Social Media
Social media is a great way to keep in touch with long-distance family members and friends. Many studies have already found that 70% of adults are already using the internet. However, not all older adults may know how to access the internet or create their own profiles for social media sites. We encourage you to reach out to your loved ones via phone call or video chat to ask for help in setting up these social accounts as it can help you feel connected to others in times of loneliness. These social media sites can also offer seniors online support groups or online therapy that can assist with any troubles you may be facing.
- Visit Faith-Based Organizations
During popular holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, many people take comfort in visiting churches for spiritual engagement. Not only can praying offer you a great deal of comfort but being in a church and participating in church activities can have you feeling a part of a community where you get to socialize and engage with others besides family.
- Consider Hiring an In-Home Companion
An in-home companion can do more than run errands, but they can also help you reduce the risk of being lonely. In-home companions are wonderful for socializing as they join you for walks, activities around the house, or even sitting around and sharing stories.
At 24/7 Nursing Care, we offer in-home companion care referral services that can offer you or your loved one the companionship and socialization needed for the holiday season. All of the individuals who provide companion care services are thoroughly screened and follow all Center for Disease Control regulations to provide your loved one with the care they need.
When you can’t be left alone, invite us into your home.® To set up a free in-home consultation, please give us a call at either our Miami office (786) 518-3622 or our Broward office (954) 949-1332.
