Combating Loneliness and Isolation in Memory Assisted Living
Loneliness and isolation are common, especially for adults living in memory assisted living. Most adults who live away from their families or with limited time with their loved ones can negatively affect their mental well-being.
As the population continues to age, the population with memory-related conditions also significantly increased. With the growth of cognitive disorders, memory assisted facilities are emerging to provide essential support for those facing memory-related challenges.
However, despite the advancement in technology and professional care, these do not suffice to combat loneliness and isolation.
Negative Effects of Loneliness and Isolation
Adults in memory assisted communities are normal human beings that need social connections. But as they age, most of them are neglected leaving them vulnerable to social isolation leading to loneliness and depression.
Weak social connections and loneliness are said to lead to higher risks of mental and physical conditions. According to research, loneliness, and isolation are at risk of heart disease, cognitive decline, depression, anxiety, or weakened immune system.
Prolonged isolation can also increase levels of stress which can have damaging effects on the body leading to various serious health conditions. The lack of social connection can also affect sleeping patterns causing insomnia and other sleep-related problems.
Adults in memory assisted living with less social interaction are also likely to have reduced overall life satisfaction. When feeling lonely and disconnected, they feel less motivated and may withdraw from social interactions, making them more isolated and even harder to overcome the feeling of loneliness.
It is important to understand the effects of loneliness and isolation on human health. That being said, you must make time to see family members or friends in a memory care facility to keep a healthy life.
How to Combat Loneliness in Memory Assisted Living
Loneliness can be deadly. But time spent with family, friends, or support groups can help prevent the serious negative impacts on adults in the memory assisted living community. Regular interaction and connection can help improve physical, mental, and emotional health.
Ways to Address Loneliness Among Seniors in Memory Care
If you live nearby, find time to visit. It does not matter if you have planned activities or just sit and have tea time together. Staying for a couple of hours is an opportunity to bond and just talk about anything, something that would evoke emotions or memories. Time with family can bring so much joy.
Tell your loved ones to reach out to friends or make new connections in memory care housing. Having friends in memory care can offer support and companionship reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Making friends or reaching out to friends can foster a sense of connection, improved mood, happiness, and increased self-esteem.
Encourage family members in memory assisted living to participate in social events and engagements to help them stay connected and active.
If possible, consider having a roommate. The idea will not only reduce the monthly cost but also reduces isolation. However, when considering this suggestion, agencies should perform thorough background checks for the safety of your loved one.
Take the time to learn the things that make them happy. That way, you get to do things together the next time you visit.
Encourage loved ones to stay physically active by joining in exercise activities.
Looking for excellent senior care in Nebraska? Learn more about Oxbow Living today!
Oxbow Living offers Assisted Living & Memory Care out of Nebraska and to the Surrounding Cities: Ashland, South Bend, Greenwood, Murdock, Elmwood, Ithaca, Mead
