How to Combat Social Isolation and Loneliness in Older Adults
It may be hard to believe today, but many adults aged 75 or older in Ireland have never been on the internet. The COVID-19 pandemic amplified an existing digital divide among older adults in Irish society, highlighting inequalities in technology access and use.
About one in five older adults is aware of technology and interested in using it, while just under half (42%) are aware of available technologies but show no interest in adopting them.
4 Ways to Stay Socially Active and Engaged
Many people worry that their older loved ones who live alone may be suffering from loneliness and social isolation. The internet can be an invaluable resource to help our older communities stay socially connected in their lives.
After all, studies show that older people are physically and mentally healthier when they maintain connections and foster strong social relationships.
There are many fun, low-cost, and even some free group activities older people can enjoy for every season. Here are a few healthy ways to continue socially interacting into one’s later years.
1. Learn something new
Many older adults are comfortable with technology, but some could use extra help getting set up. This includes messaging apps, video-calling platforms, and other sources of online connection.
Helping them learn to use new technology can be a fun bonding experience and makes it easier to stay in touch with your loved one! Some stores, like Apple, even offer daytime classes to help older adults become familiar with their new devices.
Remember, the key here is patience. It takes time for anyone of any age to become confident with a new technology. Recent studies have even found that using technology more often is linked to better self-rated health, fewer chronic conditions, higher subjective well-being and lower depression in previously socially isolated older people.
2. Connect with others
Group video chats have never been easier to set up. There are free options that are great for small social groups or paid options for larger gatherings of friends and families.
Seeing each other’s faces and sharing stories is a great way to stay connected and expand their social network.
3. Play together online
Popular board games have gone virtual! Classics like Monopoly and Scrabble can be played online together. This also helps older adults meet new people and establish meaningful connections.
There are also plenty of websites with card games, trivia, and other fun social activities to do together. Online games like Wordle have grown in popularity since the pandemic.
Sometimes, a game night is all it takes to make people feel closer. While digital provides these new opportunities, sometimes you just can’t beat the old analogue version!
4. Become pen pals
The art of writing letters may be rare today, but everyone still loves to receive nice things in the post. Make new friends, send updates, drawings, photos, or other small mementoes, and encourage the recipient to reply. Letters and cards will quickly become cherished memories that can be shared and revisited in times of separation.
And, of course, it obviously goes without saying to spend time in person when possible. While it may not always be possible, it’s great to see loved ones when time allows and the situation permits.
This can be especially important for older people with mobility issues, as it can keep them from doing the activities they love outside of the home or making the trip to visit loved ones themselves.
How Comfort Keepers Can Provide Social Connection
For older loved ones who need a little extra help around the house, our carers provide daily assistance along with companionship care and conversation.
Carers can help facilitate calls and video chats with loved ones and are trained to keep older people safe and secure in their homes.
Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find joy and happiness each day, regardless of age or ability. This can be a great option during periods of illness or isolation. Find the right support for your loved one—contact us now for more information!
