GROWING OLD CAN BE LONELY, BUT IT DOES NOT HAVE TO BE THAT WAY…
One thing is true for us all, we all get old. Getting older brings changes that can contribute to less socialization. Wether you are already at that stage in your life or it is several years down the road, social isolation is a problem that we should be thinking about. If not for yourself, for a loved one. Common occurrences for seniors is that they're social circles shrink as they get older. But retiring allows one to have more free time to engage in hobbies and relaxation, but it also means and end to regular interaction with co-workers. When family, friends, and spouses pass away or move away elders tend to develop a more solitary life.
With the Covid-19 pandemic still raging, loved ones that live close by can be difficult to see. Technology has made it easier to connect through video chat devices. However, it cannot replace the warmth and intimacy that an in-person visit can bring. Nursing homes and senior communities are a way to socialize, but it comes at the risk of contracting Covid-19 or other diseases.
As a culture we need to better care for the well being of our elderly. When we grow old most still want to feel a part of the world and still feel safe.
Here are some great solutions:
Live in a senior group home.
This is a great way to socialize with peers in a comfortable home environment. Unlike nursing homes and senior communities, senior group homes are usually 4-10 people occupancy. The intimate setting allows for a virus free and sanitary environment. It is a solution to keep our elderly safe and cared for with round the clock monitoring, and still be able to develop meaningful friendships. When looking for this model it is helpful to know they are also referred to as adult group homes, personal care home, and residential care homes. According to the spokes person for Senior Family Home, a senior group home in Illinois, the demand for their care model has increased since the covid-19 pandemic hit.
Stay close to family.
Being with family is a great solution! Wether you opt for a home close by or live with family, spending golden years with loved ones can be enriching to ones life. There may reach a time when the senior needs extra assistance with day to day activities such as meal prep, medications, or self care. Family members can provide that support or opting for a caregiver or respite services may give the family relief of 24 hour care. According to the spokes person for Home Care Services of Illinois a caregiver agency, the demand for their services has spiked since the covid-19 pandemic hit.
Live the “Golden Girls” life and get roomies.
Senior’s getting roommates have been a growing trend. This lifestyle has been around for a long time, but has recently increased in popularity. Think of the 1980’s sitcom, “Golden Girls”. Blanch posted a “Roommate Wanted” sign in the local grocery store and found her BFFs Dorothy and Rose. Today there are a number of roommate finder websites geared towards the elderly such as seniorhomeshares.com and silvernest.com . It can be a great way to find companionship, save on cost of living, stay safe and independent. It is not only the cost of a home that will go down, the cost of caregivers can also be split between roommates. Usually one person owns the resident and other roommates pay rent. Not all roommates are good ones, but if the right match is found it can be the best years.
Thinking of getting older is not easy. No one has to feel isolated just because they are old. It may take changing up your lifestyle, but aging with peers and/or loves ones can be a beautiful experience.