A substantial variety of literature and pieces have recognized the associated link concerning social isolation along with a person’s overall health. Social isolation has a profound negative effect on the life expectancy of an individual. The elderly tend to be more socially isolated due to a variety of factors. However, this is not a permanent situation. There are a variety of strategies for helping an elderly person connect with other people
In the United States, one of the most worrying factors facing the elderly is our near systemic lack of public transportation. A number of senior citizens do not or cannot drive, and transportation issues can be extremely limiting. Within a major metropolitan area public transportation may be available, but smaller suburbs or rural areas may not have reliable options. Helping to arrange transportation or offering to drive seniors or disabled people about may help them remain socially connected to contacts.
One additional key factor for seniors is a sense of purpose. Group activities or pursuits such as classes, bridge, bingo, volunteer work, work, or even caring for a pet or child can help a senior citizen connect and feel valued. These connections can help decrease the possibility of social isolation as well as create a collection of friends who can help identify potential concerns (such as checking on a friend if they missed their meet up without any notice).
Private health conditions such as hearing and vision, incontinence, or obesity can become restrictive elements for some seniors. This could contribute to them not going out in public and not wanting to meet new people. Helping seniors get clinically diagnosed and treated for these difficulties can contribute to a more positive self-image and thus an improved likelihood to remain socially connected.
For seniors who do not have helpful family members or friend groups it is vital that medical care providers be capable of identifying social isolation in elderly patients. The capacity to screen, identify and help provide strategies for sometimes socially isolated patients can immediately add years to a patient’s life.
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