Best Way to Recover? Stay Social

Blog  |  September 28, 2015

Recovering from a health episode can be challenging, but for seniors, who are socially isolated and struggling with loneliness, readjustment can be especially tricky—isolation and loneliness just may increase the odds that they will end up returning to the hospital.

There is evidence that loneliness and social isolation negatively affects physical health, not just mental health. Studies have shown that isolated seniors have higher blood pressure than peers and are more likely to be admitted to assisted living/care facilities as a result of poorer health. Loneliness can have negative repercussions. The simple act of feeling lonely is associated with higher rates of dementia in seniors and with early death.

Loneliness and social isolation can exacerbate chronic conditions, such as heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and diabetes, as well, making recovery that much more difficult. Researchers have found that socially isolated seniors were nearly twice as likely to be readmitted to hospital after a heart attack as those who were socially integrated.

The implication is that treating the older adult’s mental health and social circumstances may help increase successful recovery. During recovery, regular interactions at meals or help with daily activities can help alleviate the sense of isolation. During recovery, encouragement and support of activities with friends and family can help prevent social isolation.

Seniors who have no nearby family or strong social network may benefit greatly from companionship services and other in-home care services. In-home caregivers can give seniors the support needed to reintegrate into society and reassume activities previously enjoyed. They can also assist them with transportation, thereby removing this physical barrier to social activities. These types of engagements not only help seniors manage everyday activities, but also aid them in the road to recovery and an increased quality of life.

Blaine Bell, Owner – Belcare, dba Comfort Keepers serving The Georgian Triangle.

Contact: blainebell@comfortkeepers.ca or 705-293-5553 for free assessments of at-home care needs.

The material in this article is provided for informational purposes only, and is not meant as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, or legal, financial or any other professional services advice.

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