From Cleveland Clinic
With the colder weather here to stay awhile, it’s important to make sure the older adults in your life, and you, are still socializing.
“One of the things we learned during the pandemic is that social isolation is a really big problem and it’s probably one of the most recognized contributors to mental health issues now in the United States,” says Ronan Factora, MD, geriatrician for Cleveland Clinic.
“For older individuals, it’s a bigger deal.” Dr. Factora says loneliness can be a precursor for depression, so getting the chance to socialize with others can help improve a person’s mood. It can also be beneficial to their cognition and physical health.
He says it’s okay to be sedentary once in a while, but if it’s happening consistently, it can have negative effects. For example, it can impact your blood pressure, cholesterol and sugar levels. So, how can you encourage an older adult or motivate yourself to socialize?
Dr. Factora says you could always go to their home to visit, ask them to go on a walk or make them a meal. Take that advice for yourself, too. Many communities also offer activities and programs they could attend.
“You have to be able to take the risk and do something different than what you’re used to to help increase the chances you won’t be isolated,” he says. “And those opportunities, if they’re brand new and people you don’t know – you can look at it as an opportunity to make new connections and meet new people.”
Dr. Factora says older adults who may already be experiencing feelings of depression should really speak with their doctor. They can offer different treatment options.
