Did you know that loneliness is one of the biggest health hazards for seniors? It’s true. Doctors have called loneliness an epidemic among seniors. Often seniors don’t have any family or friends nearby who can spend time with them. Seniors who have a hard time getting out of the house are left on their own and they become lonely. If you can’t get to see your mom or dad as often as you’d like companion care at home is a good way to make sure that they don’t get lonely living at home. When seniors have companion care at home, a care provider will visit your mom or dad on a regular schedule. They can play games, do activities, watch movies, and talk so that your senior parent is getting the social engagement they need.
Not getting enough social engagement can have big consequences for seniors. Studies show that seniors who are chronically isolated and lonely have a higher risk of developing some serious health problems, including dementia.
Depression and Anxiety
Seniors who experience chronic loneliness are at a higher risk of developing depression and anxiety. Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness can become overwhelming when there is a perceived lack of social connections and meaningful relationships.
Companion care at home can help seniors lower the risk of developing depression and anxiety by making sure that seniors are getting regular social interaction.
Cognitive Decline and Dementia
According to research, being lonely increases the risk of cognitive decline and dementia in seniors. Prolonged feelings of loneliness can contribute to changes in brain structure and function, potentially increasing the risk of developing conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease.
If your senior parent is ageing in place and you’re concerned about their cognitive health getting companion care at home can help reduce the risk. Companions can also help seniors hang onto their cognitive health by doing things like playing board games, doing puzzles, and doing activities that will strengthen cognitive skills.
Cardiovascular Problems And Heart Disease
Loneliness has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular problems among seniors, including hypertension, heart disease, and stroke. Chronic loneliness can lead to elevated levels of stress hormones, inflammation, and high blood pressure, all of which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
Being lonely can literally break your mom or dad’s heart. If your senior parent has recently lost a spouse and is struggling with being alone companion care at home can help them feel connected to the world again.
Weakened Immune System
Loneliness can compromise the immune system, making seniors more susceptible to infections and illnesses. Studies have found that lonely seniors have reduced immune function and are at a higher risk of developing conditions such as colds, flu, and other infectious diseases.
Increased Mortality Risk
Loneliness has been associated with an increased risk of mortality among seniors. Studies have found that socially isolated individuals, including seniors, have a higher likelihood of premature death compared to those with strong social connections. The impact of loneliness on mortality risk is comparable to well-established risk factors such as smoking and obesity.
If you or an ageing loved one are considering Companion Care at Home in Leduc, please contact the caring staff at Serving Hands Senior Care today. Call (780) 963-1516
Premiere Home Health and Senior Home Care services in Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, Devon, St. Albert, Edmonton, Onoway, Leduc, Parkland County and surrounding communities since 2016.
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