Caregiver Jobs in Springfield Missouri Can Help Improve Senior’s Health
Many nursing homes present a bleak view, with seniors who use wheelchairs sitting and looking down while nurses hurry to handle various emergencies. This is the isolation of seniors, not socialization. While seniors are getting older, they have an increased risk of becoming isolated. Often this is because of the death of family members and friends as well as a loss of transportation and a mobility impairment.
It’s common for a senior to become more home bound if their spouse becomes ill, which can often lead to them becoming more socially isolated. Studies today show that seniors who may call themselves lonely are at a 59% greater risk of functional decline and an almost 45% larger risk of death. Check out these three ways that providing socialization as part of your caregiver job in Springfield Missouri at Visiting Angels can help the health of loved ones.
Improved Mood and Quality of Life with Increased Socialization
Studies have shown that seniors who had symptoms of depression and who were provided with social visits and physical activity for six months helped with improving their mood and their quality of life. The study concluded that social support and having a social support network were vital for positive outcomes in the long-term and the mental well-being of seniors. Even if family members can’t be there, they can get help designed to provide companionship for their loved ones through a care giving service like Visiting Angels or with a home health aide in Springfield Missouri.
Slower Memory Loss with Social Engagement
Another study focused on a senior’s ability to recall a 10-word list and showed that those who were socially active were able to recall the words better. This shows that social engagement can help slow memory loss. It is theorized that social activities can help keep seniors mentally engaged and allow them to continue to work their ability to remember. Any companionship or chance to get out and talk with other people can help in this area.
Brain Health Supported by Socialization
A study on the relationship between socialization, stress, and dementia showed that those who are socially active and less stressed could be less likely to develop dementia. There are many different ways to help seniors keep their mind sharp and reduce their stress levels to help keep dementia away. While Visiting Angels doesn’t provide medical services like home health agencies, they can provide caregiver services designed to provide your loved one with companionship when you can’t be there.
Socialization can provide numerous benefits for your loved one, but it’s not always possible to be there for them at all times. If you’re worried that your loved one is not socializing enough, take the time to contact the Visiting Angels home care agency in Springfield MO.
Our services are not the same as a home health care agency because we do not provide medical services, but we can provide respite care, senior personal care, and companion care. If you’d like to make a difference in the life of a senior, apply for one of our caregiver jobs in Springfield Missouri.
Call Visiting Angels today to learn more about how our companionship services can help your loved one with socialization and the benefits that come with it.