If your senior parent is aging in place and they love living in their home, they may not tell you if they are experiencing loneliness or anxiety. It’s very common for seniors that are living alone to become socially isolated and lonely. But they often don’t want to tell their family members they are having these feelings out of fear that their family members will want them to stop living alone.
But seniors don’t need to leave the homes they love just to get more social connection. Companion care at home offers seniors the social support they need to be less isolated. Companion care at home is perfect for seniors who may have mobility challenges or find it difficult to go out with friends or go out and meet new people.
With companion care at home seniors get regular visits from a companion they know and trust. Your senior parent will have a friend to share meals with, do activities with, and spend time with so that they don’t become lonely.
If you notice any of these signs in your senior parent talk to them about companion care at home:
Withdrawal From Friends And Family
Your senior parent may withdraw from social interactions and spend an increasing amount of time alone, avoiding social gatherings or community events they once enjoyed if they are feeling lonely or isolated.
Decreased Communication With Friends And Family
Your senior parent may also stop initiating calls and texts with friends, family members, or neighbors. They may not want to go outside the house to chat with neighbors, or avoid social gatherings for birthdays or other events.
Loss of Interest In Activities
If your senior parent doesn’t seem interested in activities and hobbies that they used to enjoy, that is a sure sign that they are feeling depressed, withdrawn, or lonely.
Changes in Eating Habits
Loneliness can affect appetite and eating habits. Your parent may either eat significantly less or turn to comfort foods as a way to cope with feelings of loneliness. If you notice that your senior parent is gaining weight or losing a lot of weight, it could be due to loneliness.
Changes in Sleep Patterns
Loneliness can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to difficulties falling asleep or staying asleep through the night. If your senior parent is having new sleep difficulties or doesn’t want to be alone at night that could be due to loneliness.
Decline in Personal Care
If they are lonely or depressed, your senior parent may not keep up with personal grooming and hygiene habits the way they used to. They may also be having a hard time physically maintaining good hygiene.
Expressing Feelings of Sadness or Emptiness
They may express feelings of sadness, emptiness, or dissatisfaction with life. Pay attention to any hints or direct statements indicating loneliness or a sense of isolation.
Seeking Attention
They may exhibit behaviors seeking attention or validation, such as excessive calling or texting family members, or expressing a desire for company.
Increased Health Complaints
Loneliness can have physical manifestations, such as headaches, stomachaches, or other unexplained health complaints. Your parent may visit the doctor more frequently without a clear medical cause.
Overly Dependent on Television
While technology can be a lifeline for staying connected, excessive use of television or social media may indicate a reliance on virtual connections due to loneliness.
If you or an aging loved one needs Companion Care services near Sacramento, CA contact A Better living Home Care today (916) 514-7006
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