How to encourage your parent to be more social Uncategorized

How to help your parent be more social, and why it’s critical to their health

 
 
 
By Susan Chaityn Lebovits
 
As we age, socializing becomes even more important for maintaining cognitive function, emotional health, and physical fitness.
While the most obvious benefit of connecting with friends and family is enjoying time together, numerous studies continue to prove that those who are socially engaged have a significantly slower rate of cognitive decline, and better overall health. So how can you encourage your parent to be more social? We’ve compiled a list of common reasons why seniors begin to self-isolate or lose interest in socializing, along with tips on how to coax them out of the darkness.
 
Possible explanations for lack of interest

Physical Limitations
Mobility issues, chronic pain, or health conditions can make it challenging to attend social gatherings or events.
Loss of Friends and Family
The passing of loved ones and friends can lead to isolation, and seniors may withdraw from social activities due to depression.
Technology Gaps
Some elders may struggle with technology, making it difficult to connect with others online.
Transportation
Limited access to transportation can restrict the ability to attend social events or visit friends and family.

How to initiate a conversation to inspire socializing

Be Supportive and Patient
Encourage your parent to engage at their own pace. Offer reassurance and support to help them share any anxieties.

Explore Interests
Identify activities or groups that align with your loved one’s interests. This will help ensure that their time spent is both enjoyable and meaningful.

Arrange Transportation
If transportation is an issue, explore alternative means to help your loved one get where they need to go, such as coordinating carpools or arranging for a ridesharing service. See Transportation under resources.

Utilize Technology
Help your parent learn to use technology for virtual socializing. Video calls and social media can bridge the gap when in-person interactions are limited. There are now many products that do not require a log in, such as the Amazon Echo Show, or the Meta Portal. See Technology under resources.

Seek Community Resources
Many communities offer programs and services designed to support senior socialization, from light fitness classes to book and movie clubs. Log onto Ease into Aging as well as the U.S. Division of Aging by State.

 
Ideas for your next visit
• Volunteer with your parent for a cause they care about.
• Arrange gardening or crafting sessions.
• Visit senior-friendly cafes or restaurants.
• Explore nature with leisurely walks in the park.
• Schedule a game night/afternoon.
• Discuss their favorite music and create a Spotify or Alexa list that they can use.
• Support your parent in traveling to visit an old friends or family member.
• Virtual Travel: invite neighbors to go around the world from your parent’s living room.
 
Remind your parent that regular participation in social activities has been scientifically proven to increase cognitive performance and reduce the rate of decline. And along the way, they’re very likely to have a few laughs, learn something new, and make some good friends.