Easing Loneliness with Companionship
Canadian census data shows that about one-quarter (24.6 per cent) of the population aged 65 and over now live alone. According to another recent study, people who live alone have an 80 per cent higher chance of having depression than those who live with other people. Lack of contact with others is a serious issue among the aging population, and isolation and loneliness are key signs that a senior lacks the support and tools needed to live a healthy, independent life and may be spiralling into decline.
Various types of support services are available to ensure that all the needs of a senior are met. Home support workers, registered care aides and a variety of nursing staff will help your elderly loved one live at home and provide them with the companionship that they desire.
Aging in Place Experts at Care & Company (SeniorCareVictoria.ca) agree that companionship is a key part of senior care, not just because companions aid with daily tasks such as housekeeping and personal care, but also because they provide a meaningful human connection that greatly improves the quality of life. These companions set out each day to make a difference in the lives of older people by sharing their talents and gifts such as:
1. Art Therapy: It may surprise you to learn that art can be an effective tool in the treatment of loneliness, but this therapeutic technique has been around for a long time. Art therapy is rooted in the idea that creative expression can foster healing and mental well-being. Companions observe that art expression helps to put their client’s emotions and non-verbal experiences into words.
2. Music Therapy: Music therapy has been proven to help restore and maintain health as well as help recall memories and fight depression. Many companions have a strong desire to help and inspire lonely seniors and use music to address physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs. Music encourages bonding with others which in turn can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and depression.
3. Exercise Therapy: We all know exercise has countless benefits, in fact, it is thought that exercise can be just as effective as anti-depressants in treating mild-to-moderate depression. A companion that is a Certified Medical Exercise Specialist can develop a comprehensive program to help achieve healthier movement habits. This program includes assistance with training the muscles and brain to work together and to get the blood flowing once again.
Speak to an Aging in Place specialist to learn more about senior loneliness and how to prevent it. Chronic loneliness is not only horrible to experience day in and day out, it can also have a devastating impact on an older person’s mental and physical health.
Learn more about Care & Company and how they are devoted to helping our elderly. Call 250-382-2328 or visit #201-2187 Oak Bay Ave., Athlone Court to sign up for a free assessment.
#201 - 2187 Oak Bay Ave seniorcarevictoria.ca, fit-4-life.ca