One of the first things that a toddler is taught is to share their toys and be nice to other toddlers and children. This is the formation of teaching friendship or companionship, which is important at every stage of life. As somebody reaches their senior years, it becomes even more important. Studies have found that having a circle of friends or companions in the later years can help reduce issues associated with cognitive decline and disorders such as Alzheimer’s.
So, if you are having concerns about relocating your elderly loved one into an assisted living facility, there are many things to consider about what they will experience in such a setting. They will have other people there that they can make friends with, and this will almost certainly help them to better manage any condition that they are suffering from.
Why is companionship so important in senior years? Read on to find out.
Keeps The Mind Active
The first thing to consider is that when you are talking to somebody, irrespective of your age, your mind is active. You are engaging in a conversation and thinking of what to say next which is an essential skill. This skill can be lost, especially to those who have Alzheimer’s, if they are left alone for hours on end. An assisted living Marshfield WI or other such facilities will enable your loved one to engage with people daily, which will keep them thinking and engaged.
Prevents Loneliness
There is an old saying that loneliness is a killer, and there is some evidence of this. Humans are social animals, and if someone is isolated for too long, they will begin to show signs of stress, which may appear as anxiety or not taking care of themselves physically. On the more extreme end, they may stop eating and may even be self-injuring. This is extremely devastating to see in anybody but particularly an elderly relative, so companionship will prevent loneliness. Even if your only relative is grumpy and complaining about their companion, it’s likely that they will be happier!
Reduces Anxiety
Social interaction is something that can quickly fall into decline if it is not regularly practiced, and this can increase the chances of somebody developing anxiety. Having a companion in older years has been found to reduce anxiety and makes elderly people more friendly and amicable in the community and where they are living.
Hobbies
It’s important to note that if your elderly loved one is living in an assisted living facility, they will likely find somebody there that they share a hobby. This is also important for them as it will prompt them to engage in their hobby and can be the start of a group-based activity in the setting, such as a knitting circle or even a book club. These activities will once again keep them active and mentally stimulated.
Trips Out
Older people are more likely to go on day trips if they have somebody to go with them. Having a companion will help them to get out and about and see the sights of the city or go for weekend excursions to hotels.
