The Benefits of Strong Relationships For Seniors | Senior Helpers South Shore
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The Benefits of Strong Relationships For Seniors

What do seniors need the most during a pandemic? Perhaps, you’ve heard of a recent story from a North Carolina senior living facility, where seniors requested pen pals on social media. Like many who must shelter in place, these seniors craved fellowship and social engagement. As shown by this and other similar stories, companionship is critical in keeping seniors happy and healthy.

As the Senior Helpers team serving the Brockton, Quincy, and Braintree areas have seen time and time again, the benefits of strong relationships for seniors are endless: 

Social Benefits

Have you heard of the saying “Everybody needs somebody”? Although it’s a true saying, it can be a challenge to find a friend during one’s twilight years.

In the midst of a pandemic that disproportionately affects the elderly, it can be even more difficult to find and maintain good relationships. 

Engaging with others regularly can increase mental acuity, stave off depression, and promote healthier habits. Without companionship, seniors have a much higher chance of suffering from memory loss, loneliness, and anxiety. 

Throughout history, families either cared for seniors at home or paid for them to live in a care facility. Today, however, several factors make it difficult for seniors to enjoy strong relationships.

First, grown children sometimes move far away from their parents and can’t visit often. Second, they may not be able to afford the costs of a care facility. 

That's why diverse relationships have become critical in safeguarding the health of seniors. Enabling seniors to find friends in their neighborhoods lets them build sustainable relationships in the absence of their families. In-home caregivers can also provide much-needed support.

Physical and Psychological Benefits

Studies show that those who actively engage with others have a 70% slower rate of decline in mental acuity. Meanwhile, the rate of disability is 43% lower in seniors who engage socially, emphasizing the strong relationship between social engagement and physical health. 

Regular care is a significant factor in helping seniors live longer, more fulfilling lives. 

Most seniors have little desire to leave their homes after many happy years there. In fact, the moving process often leaves seniors feeling isolated and depressed. 

However, with social engagement, it’s possible for your loved one to age in place contentedly.

Home Benefits

It isn’t unusual for household tasks to take on new levels of difficulty as we age. Balance, speed, and flexibility can all deteriorate as our bodies slow down. 

Having someone to help with these tasks makes life easier for seniors. Not only do they get to relax a little more, but they also get to engage with others while working. We all know that working alongside a friend makes even the most mundane tasks more enjoyable. 

No matter where we are in life, having strong relationships is critical to staying healthy, happy, and secure. If you'd like to learn more about the benefits of strong relationships for seniors and round-the-clock in-home care in the Brockton, Quincy, and Braintree areas, contact us at Senior Helpers South Shore. 

We’ll provide a free in-home care evaluation and do everything we can to help your loved one lead a more fulfilling life.