Northern Virginia remains a popular place to settle down later in life. Whether your loved one has been a part of the community for decades or is new, there are plenty of things to see and do. However, it is common for seniors to slip into seclusion, even in a place such as NOVA. Whether due to physical or cognitive limitations or simply an unawareness of the community around them, older individuals might find themselves getting lonely.
Loneliness is a significant problem that your family should address as soon as possible, as it can cause much more than just sadness (although that is important, too). It may threaten your loved one’s life. The good news is that NOVA offers some easy solutions for lonely seniors who need to break out of isolation.
The Real Cost of Loneliness
Being lonely can be discouraging, and the emotional toll it takes is notable. However, if your loved one is suffering from loneliness, they may be at more risk than you realize. Lonely individuals are statistically more likely to suffer from a range of medical challenges, such as dementia, heart disease, and even premature death from any cause. Loneliness is not just a feeling; it is a health factor.
Unfortunately, as many as one in three older individuals report that they feel significant loneliness, and around 25% fit the criteria for being fully socially isolated. To stop your loved one from suffering the consequences of such a situation, be sure to take full advantage of everything NOVA has to offer. Some easy solutions include the following:
Getting Out of the House
Taking a deep breath of fresh air is great for the body, but it can also be a boon to the mind. NOVA is filled with opportunities for socialization for people of all ages as soon as they step out of the door.
Games
Your loved one does not need to be able to run or jump in order to enjoy games. Sports and competitions are available at senior centers and private organizations for people of all skill levels and abilities. From poker and puzzles to pickleball and bowling, sports come in just about any variety to suit your loved one’s needs.
If movement is a challenge, that is all right, too. Some senior centers or other locations choose a day of the week to watch sports or games together on TV. Game shows remain a popular choice, as well!
Clubs
If your family member does not want to participate in something competitive, clubs can be a wonderful alternative. NOVA is home to just about any club you can imagine: painting, reading, walking, gardening, and more. Check the local library for flyers for clubs, or join a social media group (e.g., Facebook, Nextdoor) for your neighborhood to see what people are planning for their next meet-up.
Non-profits
Many senior-focused non-profits in NOVA provide opportunities for your loved one to stay social. SCNOVA, for instance, regularly hosts events that are accessible for seniors with varying interests and abilities. One week might feature a sports competition, while the next may welcome an interesting speaker to give a talk. Because non-profits are often more aware of seniors’ needs, they may provide social opportunities that are more accessible than those found elsewhere.
Staying in and Socializing
Not all older folks can leave the house easily. For those staying in, there is no reason to believe that social opportunities dry up.
Messaging
If your loved one already has close friends, helping them connect via social media or a messenger system can make a big difference. Create a community Discord for them, share phone numbers for texting, teach them how to set up video calls, or simply make sure they know how to charge their phone so they can continue to reach out to the people they love.
Visits
Many non-profit organizations offer visitor programs, in which a volunteer visits the home for a little while to play games, watch TV, read, or enjoy friendly conversation. If your family member does not want someone in the house, these non-profits may also offer a friendly caller program.
Pets
An animal companion can bring a wealth of joy and love to a person’s life, and their friendship is irreplaceable. In fact, studies show that older individuals who keep at least one pet are less likely to be lonely, and the health effects of loneliness are less prevalent among them.
However, if your older family member is not physically or cognitively capable of caring for an animal, there are still options. Consider helping them start an indoor garden with a few potted plants. Robotic animals are becoming increasingly accessible, too. Some programs allow people online to click to give animals in shelters treats or toys. Nurturing something can assuage feelings of loneliness without ever leaving the house.
Stay Connected in NOVA
Northern Virginia is overflowing with opportunities for lonely seniors to find joy and companionship; you only need to know where to look. Contact the Shepherds Center of Northern Virginia to discover how we are making a difference in communities such as Oakton, Vienna, Dunn Loring-Merrifield, Great Falls, Herndon, and Reston. If you’re outside these areas but have questions, give us a call, and we’ll guide you to the Shepherd’s Center nearest to you!