Community Networks and Activities for the Elderly
Written by:
Jeffrey Grossman
Published:
March 13, 2020
Are you interested in learning about the unique benefits of senior support groups? We've got a complete guide for you here.
According to recent research, about a third of seniors, ages 50-80, are lonely. More than one-third of respondents said they felt a lack of companionship. Feelings of isolation are common when companionship is absent, which is why senior support groups are essential. Of the seniors who do socialize with family and friends, they claim to do so once a week or less. While this is better than nothing, the number is still far too low. Luckily, feelings of loneliness are not permanent and can even be reversed. Senior support groups are a fantastic way for the elderly to socialize, get out of the house, and be around like-minded individuals. Support groups are an excellent opportunity to meet new people and cultivate loving relationships.Let’s discuss the available community networks and activities for the elderly and why supporting them is so important. As a caregiver or family member, learn how you can encourage a senior to make friends today!
Why Is Community Support Important?
One of the most fundamental reasons community support is so vital is because it has a direct effect on a senior's health. Social isolation and loneliness in older people pose significant health risks. Our connections to other human beings are what allows us to thrive—and without those relationships, health is at risk.
Health Risks of Social Isolation for Seniors
Cognitive decline
Depression
Heart disease
High blood pressure
Obesity
A weakened immune system
Alzheimer's disease
Anxiety
In severe cases, this loneliness can even contribute to premature death.The adverse effects of social isolation are startling—especially knowing that the methods of combating it can be so simple. Fortunately, these emotions can be countered. Elderly support groups provide us with the hope that we can change this cycle and renew health and happiness to a senior.
Benefits of Community Support
The ability to live a longer and healthier life
A boost in mood
Provides a sense of purpose
Aids in maintaining overall well-being
Promote and provide social interaction
Can improve cognitive decline
Those with a higher risk of social isolation include being a widower and lonely, those who live far from friends or family, and those who lack transportation or have a loss of mobility. Although anyone can benefit from social support groups for the elderly, elders in these situations can have even more significant benefits. Now that you understand why community support is so necessary, let's cover what local groups for the elderly are available.
Community Networks and Activities for the Elderly
Senior citizen support groups come in a variety of styles. This diversity ensures that a senior can find an ideal group for them and their situation. For example, there can be anything from social groups for widows and widowers to groups of seniors who play Bingo.
Group Games for Seniors
Does your senior thrive on mind games? Several games can improve memory. Groups that play these types of games would be ideal for someone dealing with Alzheimer's disease. Games, in general, have fantastic therapeutic benefits, from improving reflection and memory recall to increasing social engagement. Seniors love the support (not to mention, the fun!) that comes from team-orientated games.
Exercise Groups for Seniors
Depending on your senior's mobility, they may even be able to attend support groups that focus on exercise. For example, if they've recently suffered from a stroke, relearning to walk can instill them with confidence and independence. Perhaps your loved one can join a senior support group that participates in short, leisurely walks, or focuses on lifting small weights or doing simple stretches.
Conditional Support Groups for Seniors
Does your loved one suffer from glaucoma? Are they wheelchair-bound? Are they disabled veterans, or even amputees?Help seniors find support by researching specific groups in your local community. The more specific the group to their condition, the better they'll be able to bond with the other attendees and form meaningful friendships.Not just any relationship provides healing properties, but one that provides depth and quality does. If your senior finds a group of people like them, they're bound to form more purposeful bonds that allow them to feel more understood.
Find Senior Support Groups Today
As a caregiver, friend, or family member to a senior, you can encourage them to make loving relationships. Regardless of your senior's condition, there are senior support groups that can cater to their needs.These bonds can help your loved one mentally, emotionally, and even physically. As this article highlights, senior support groups have an astounding number of benefits. They can add joy and longevity to their lives in a unique way.To find a senior support group that's fitting, you can ask other seniors in the community, get recommendations from friends or family, or ask a local home care agency like Commonwise Home Care. Consider typing in, “support groups for elderly near me,” in your Google Search bar to research ideas online.We’re here to serve families as much as we serve their loved ones. Reach out to us at 434-202-8565 with any questions or concerns regarding your loved one. We aim to compassionately care, 24/7.
At Home Caregivers
Are you a compassionate, caring individual? Do you have a positive effect on the lives of the elderly? Do you think you have what it takes to be a caregiver yourself? Consider the qualities of a caregiver that we look for in our Care Team. If any of these traits resonate with you, learn more about caregiver careers.