News & Resources

As the cheer from the holiday season fades and the weather turns colder, the brisk temperatures and reduced daylight can often exacerbate feelings of loneliness and isolation among older adults. This is particularly concerning considering the health consequences, with isolation leading to a 29% increased risk of heart disease, 32% increased risk of stroke, and a 50% increased risk of developing dementia, according to the United States Department of Health and Human Services. What’s more, the rate of older adults in the U.S. facing social isolation has increased every year since 1976, and today senior loneliness accounts for $6.7 billion in excess Medicare spending each year.

Recognizing these harmful effects, it can’t be overstated how important social interaction is for older adults to improve their well-being, especially during winter. That’s where companionship from a caregiver can make all the difference by providing:

• Emotional Support: Having someone with whom to talk and share experiences can provide crucial emotional support, especially during challenging times.
• Improved Physical Health: Caregivers can motivate older adults to stay active and engage in physical activities, even during colder weather.
• Mental Stimulation: Spending time with caregivers can provide mental stimulation through conversation, shared activities, and games, which can help maintain cognitive function.
• Sense of Belonging: Feeling connected to others through social interactions combats feelings of loneliness and strengthens a sense of belonging.

The Family & Nursing Care Difference

Family & Nursing Care is one of the oldest and most well-respected resources for private duty home care in the Mid-Atlantic region. We pride ourselves on offering access to empathetic, personal companion care that helps clients feel valued, secure, and connected to the community. Some ways caregivers can help combat feeling isolated or lonely includes:

• General Companionship: In addition to helping clients with meeting nutritional needs, personal care, and appointments, caregivers can become close confidants and provide older adults with an outlet and space to share feelings, thoughts, and stories. Loneliness can be curbed with something as simple as sharing a meal or having regular conversations. Caregivers and clients often develop a connection like that of a friend or family member.
• Social Access: Mobility issues can inhibit social interaction, but you can leave those worries behind! A professional caregiver can accompany clients to the dining room, social events and get togethers, including senior clubs, knitting circles, and more, offering tons of opportunities to connect with potential new friends.

“The winter can often be an isolating time of year for everyone, but especially older adults. That’s why it’s important to prioritize social connections, which can help improve your health and well-being,” said Kelly Salb, Vice President of Client Services for Family & Nursing Care. “One great way to help increase human connection is through the companionship of a caregiver – not only can an experienced caregiver support daily living activities, but that person can also serve as a shoulder to lean on if needed.”

Living independently doesn’t have to mean feeling alone, and now is a great time to decide to spend more time with a companion or in the community. Family & Nursing Care offers access to a range of care services to help with this and ensure human connection. To learn more, visit the Home Care Services or Contact Us pages on our website.