Home Helpers Can Prevent Isolation In Newington, CT Seniors With Social Media

Staying socially active in senior years is crucial for our overall well-being. Unfortunately, many seniors deal with loneliness and social isolation on a daily basis, especially those who live alone. The lack of companionship and meaningful social interaction can have a devastating effect on senior health and trigger numerous health problems.

Though all this may sound discouraging, there is a silver lining – a growing trend among seniors that may help turn things for the better: social media. Home helpers from Visiting Angels Newington encourage older adults to facilitate connections and avoid isolation by going online. Here’s how:

Make a social media or caregiving share site account

Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram may offer your loved one the opportunity to foster vital connections with family and old friends. These platforms can also be used for meeting new people and staying mentally engaged through various entertaining content. You can help your loved one set up a social media account and teach them how to use it safely.

Besides basic social media account, your loved one can also opt to use sites such as CaringBridge or Lotsa Helping Hands. Senior users of these sites can communicate with family and professional home helpers and let them know how they feel by changing their care needs and health status online.

Schedule regular FaceTime or Skype dates with friends and family

Video chat features such as FaceTime, Google Hangouts, or Skype are incredibly user-friendly and accessible to all ages. Though it is always better to have friends and family come visit in person, seeing their faces and hearing them on a regular basis can mean the word to your loved one, especially if they live far away. This can undoubtedly help your loved one feel more content and less lonely.

Encourage online support group participation

Nowadays, there are millions of groups on Facebook and computer-savvy seniors can opt to join those groups reflecting their interests and connectivity needs. For example, they can join various online support groups and gain encouragement and support from like-minded peers.

Monitor Internet use for safe browsing

It is important to Visiting Angels Newington that seniors remain safe on social networks and avoid falling prey to identity thefts and numerous scams. Occasionally, family home helpers should check in on their loved ones to monitor their activities on social media platforms. Make sure to monitor them with sensitivity or ask them about their activities on social media casually. You don’t want to parent your senior loved one or minimize their sense of autonomy.

Get out in real-time

Although social media is a convenient way to keep in touch in between dates and appointments, it should never be a replacement for meeting with friends and family. Encourage your loved one to remain active as much as they can.

If you are a family caregiver, consider hiring professional home helpers from Visiting Angels Newington. A loving caregiver can provide friendly companionship and improve your loved one’s quality of life in many ways. Call Visiting Angels Newington to learn more about our home helpers and how we can help your loved one feel safe and comfortable in their own home.