Companionship: Your caregiver can assist you or your loved one with recreational activities or hobbies, or just provide good company for a game of cards or a nice chat!
Recent research studies tell the tale—social isolation leads to depression and loneliness, both very bad for our health. In March 2018, AARP noted that people who have a circle of family and friends tend to be physically healthier, with better brain health than people who experience loneliness and isolation.
The caregiver can provide transportation so your loved one can continue to visit with friends, exercise, take part in events in their faith community, and go to classes and other outings they enjoy. With the caregiver available to drive and accompany them, your loved one may be more enthusiastic about checking out some new activities, as well.
The time your loved one and the caregiver spend together isn’t all about medication management and other care tasks. It’s also about the human touch. Caregivers and their clients form connections that are very special. It’s important to hire from an agency that considers your loved one’s preferences and personality as they send a caregiver — and, if the caregiver and your loved one don’t quite click, will happily send another one.
When seniors experience health challenges and rely on others for care, they aren’t the only one to suffer a social slump. A study from the Stanford Center for Longevity noted that family caregivers, too, are at risk of social isolation. These family members spend so much of their spare time caring for their loved one that they don’t have time for their usual social activities. That’s not good for the senior or their family! Adding in-home care to the mix lets everyone enjoy an expanded social life. “Mom and I were in each other’s hair,” reports one daughter. “Once we brought in home care, we were both happier. And now when we get together, we can each talk about our day!”
