Danbury Senior Living is a fantastic option for seniors who are combatting the winter blues

Winter is a time of year that can cause feelings of loneliness in all of us, but our senior loved ones who are living alone can tend to feel that more than most. Being isolated due to weather or lack of transportation can affect seniors and cause loneliness to lead to depression.

Did you know that, according to Pew Research, 20% of Americans over 60 live alone and that number increases with age. And yes, over 60% report feelings of loneliness. Here are a few ways we can help:

1. Make communication a priority. Some older adults go days without speaking to anyone at all, especially those who are in poor health or who have limited mobility or transportation options. Nothing beats an in-person visit but if you can’t see each other, talking on the phone or video chatting can make a world of difference.

2. Encourage and facilitate social activities through local organizations. Places like churches and community senior centers are a great place for individuals of all ages to meet like-minded people and find opportunities for group activities. Offer to be their transportation and escort to encourage them to participate.

3. Identify opportunities to combat loneliness at any time.

For those times in between when loneliness can strike, create a list of family and friends they can call. It can be kids, grandkids, nieces, nephews, neighbors, and even their church. For many of my senior friends nothing beats a 5-minute conversation of “Hey, how are you today? Can you believe this weather?”

4. Bring by a meal. Just like the rest of us, many seniors don’t eat right when they are depressed. If you can visit in person, bring their favorite lunch or dinner by and enjoy it with conversation. That hour out of the day can mean the world to them. You’ll also be able to make sure that they’re getting a hearty, healthy meal.

Danbury Senior Living is a fantastic option for seniors who are combatting the winter blues. With life enriching activities, neighbors of the same age and interests, and chef-prepared meals daily, your senior loved one can wipe away the winter blues and enjoy each day to its fullest. Visit www. DanburySeniorLiving.com or call 440.596.3797 to learn more.