9 Ways to Help Seniors Avoid Isolation
Recent headlines in Mt. Pleasant, Tennessee told how police discovered a 79-year-old man who hadn’t eaten in days. He finally called 911 to reach out for help. The responding officers bought him $160 worth of groceries. While the compassionate response was amazing, the thought of this poor man being that disconnected from his surrounding community, that he could go this long uncared for, is devastating. No one should live in that much isolation.
As more of the Baby Boomer generation ages, the problem of helping seniors stay connected is a growing one. There are a host of potential dangers to seniors left in isolation. Such risks include depression, risk of injury, decline in health, increase in blood pressure and much more.
We are communal beings, not
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TV and radio stations have calendars of nonprofit events on their websites. These will list upcoming events or needs for volunteers. Contact local humane societies to see if they need kitten cuddlers or hospitals to see if they need people to rock babies. Some hospitals appreciate handmade quilts or crocheted hats for preemies in the NICU.
8 – Don’t forget places of worship. If she is already active in a church, synagogue or other place of worship, encourage her to contact the office and ask if there are any volunteer tasks available. Most places of worship encourage members to give of their time and talents. Many need help placing inserts into weekly bulletins, washing sheets for nursery cribs or wiping down baby toys to prevent germs from spreading.
9 – Don’t forget the love. Make sure to offer reassuring touch when you see him or her. A genuine hug or a kind pat on the hand can reinforce that you care and this is not a bother. Human beings need to be touched in loving, safe ways. That doesn’t stop just because the individual ages. When you see her, a kind hug or kiss on the cheek can help lighten stress and brighten a