When you think about home health care in San Antonio there’s one basic factor that you might underestimate. In addition to making sure seniors take their medications as recommended and eat a nutritious diet, providing basic companionship makes a huge difference in anyone’s wellbeing.
In fact, prolonged social isolation has been found to create health risks equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day, according to a report from the AARP Foundation. In addition to arranging visits from caring home health care workers who will take the time to engage in conversation, read or play cards, here are a few more suggestions seniors and their families can use to increase the likelihood of staying connected:
Support a worthy cause.
Meet others by volunteering in your community. If you’re already a member or donor to a nonprofit you feel strongly about see if they have local chapters or fundraising dinners where you can socialize with other members.
Focus on your spirituality.
Churches, synagogues, meditation centers, and other such places are great for welcoming newcomers, and providing opportunities for meaningful discussions. Check their calendars for upcoming events.
Check out senior centers.
Research resources in your neighborhood. Many centers have a wide array of activities and classes from computer basics to ballroom dancing.
Take risks.
It can be more difficult to make friends later in life, but there are many seniors trying to do the same thing as you so you’re also helping them when you take a chance and reach out. Avoid social isolation and ask a neighbor to come over for coffee. Accept more invitations that get you out of the house, and mingling more.
At Alamo Companion Services we offer companionship along with affordable private home health care and other services. Contact us today to discuss your needs.