Maintaining social connections while aging in place can be difficult for many of us as we age, but the concept known as ‘aging in place’ can help make this easier. Aging in place involves staying in the home environment of a person throughout their life without having to move or seek extra care from healthcare professionals or caregivers.
It is important not only to provide elderly individuals with safe and comfortable senior living communities and environments that they are already familiar with but also to maintain social connections and engagement which can have massive health benefits on quality of life when aging at home. In this blog post, we will explore what it means to age in place and why it is important to maintain strong and promote social connection while doing so.
According to ruralhealth.com, There are currently about 46 million Americans aged 65 and more, and this figure is projected to rise to nearly 90 million by the year 2050. The number of people 65 and older is expected to climb by over 18 million between 2020 and 2030 when the last of the baby boom cohorts will have reached that age.
Key Takeaways
- Aging in place is staying in the home environment of a person throughout their life without having to move or seek extra care from health care professionals or caregivers.
- Senior connections are important for seniors who are aging in place since it helps them maintain social engagement and quality of life, as well as provide emotional and social support.
- There are a variety of senior connection, social connectedness, programs, and activities to participate in, such as senior centers, adult day care services, home health services, group activities, and more.
Challenges of maintaining social connections while aging in place
Physical limitations
As individuals age, they are often faced with the challenge of maintaining social connections while aging in place. Mobility issues can prevent them from participating in activities they once enjoyed or attending events they normally would have attended. NCBI reports that mobility limitations are increasingly prevalent among older adults, affecting about 35% of people over 70 and 90% of people over 85. This has been associated with increased fall risk factors, hospitalization, a decreased quality of life, and even mortality.
Physical limitations and increasing isolation can impede one’s sense of belonging and connectedness to their community, resulting in decreased mental and emotional well-being. It is essential that seniors are provided with the necessary resources and support to help combat these issues; actively engaging with local organizations and utilizing existing programs may prove beneficial for individuals who are striving to combat the social isolation that comes along with aging in place.
Isolation and loneliness
As people age, a challenge that many faces is maintaining social connections while aging in place. Too often, seniors become socially isolated, leading to feelings of loneliness and depression. It’s no secret that social connection is vital for health and happiness. That’s why it’s important to cultivate these connections in meaningful ways even later in life.
Social activities within the community such as joining a gym or taking classes can help seniors stay connected. But there are also other activities like visiting with friends or family nearby, attending volunteer events, and reaching out by phone or technology that can help foster those relationships. While maintaining social connections may present its challenges, it is critical to ensure sustained emotional well-being even as one age in place.
Financial constraints
As aging populations strive to remain in their homes and communities independently, they often endure a number of socioemotional challenges that are difficult to overcome. One such concern is financial constraints, which may limit an aging adult’s ability to maintain social connections with friends, family, and neighbors. For instance, with limited income streams, many seniors are unable to afford the travel necessary for visits with far-away loved ones or spend recreational time at their favorite spots in the community.
These financial constraints consequently impede the ability of older adults to remain socially connected and engaged, potentially leading them toward feelings of isolation and depression. It is thus imperative that those struggling financially have access to resources designed specifically to provide greater connection opportunities outside of one’s home environment.
Technological barriers
As aging adults attempt to remain in their homes and sustain social connections, they frequently face numerous technological challenges. Smartphones, tablets, and other forms of technology are often not simple or comfortable to use for those over the age of 65 and many require assistance from friends and family members. This lack of access to technology can create a cycle whereby social isolation perpetuates further lack of access to technology as individuals age in place.
Additionally, accessing resources such as telehealth tools that aid elderly persons with maintaining their mental and physical health becomes difficult when the necessary digital infrastructure is not available. For these reasons, overcoming technological hurdles is an essential aspect of helping the elderly population maintain social connections through aging-in-place initiatives.
If you or a loved one is preparing to age in place, this article I wrote will help you navigate the necessary steps to prepare.
Solutions to overcome challenges
Joining community groups and organizations
As people age, adapting to environmental changes and new technology can be difficult. One recommended solution to aid individuals in staying in their homes is joining various community groups and organizations such as senior centers and wellness centers.
These support systems provide activities designed for the elderly population, allowing them to increase socialization and physical activity. In addition, these groups provide helpful resources for individuals living alone or caring for a limited mobility family member or pet.
Becoming a member of these groups expands the scope of available services like home health care, transportation for grocery shopping or medical appointments, legal advice, and forums for gathering information on how tools like assistive apps can provide additional care – helping seniors maintain an independent lifestyle successfully.
Engaging in online social activities and communities
As the senior population continues to grow, aging in place has become an increasingly popular option among older adults. This can present some challenges to seniors as they attempt to remain connected and secure in their own homes.
However, one of the solutions to overcome these challenges is engaging in online social activities and communities through applications such as Skype, FaceTime, and Zoom. These technologies provide a unique opportunity for seniors to stay in touch with their family, friends, and other members of their community while maintaining social distancing during these challenging times.
Furthermore, there are various web-based social networking platforms that allow seniors to access multiple support services from the comfort of their homes. In addition, many age-specific websites also offer virtual fitness classes that help bridge the gap between homebound seniors and staying physically active.
Volunteering and giving back to the community
A key solution to the challenges of aging in place is volunteering and giving back to the community. It is essential for seniors to remain connected and engaged with their peers in society, both personally and socially. This heartfelt act can go a long way in bringing happiness and contentment to seniors’ lives which further leads to improved physical and mental health. Volunteers with age-related diseases should be allowed suitable adjustments as they need some extra time and care while executing service activities.
Organizations providing such opportunities should have the necessary mechanisms in place to ensure that seniors get the special attention they need. Moreover, there should be an appropriate security measures so that the volunteers feel safe while carrying out assistance work. All these initiatives will certainly play a critical role in making aging a rewarding experience for seniors.
Building relationships with neighbors and local businesses
Aging in place can be a challenge, but there are many solutions that can make the process smoother. One key factor is building relationships with neighbors and local businesses. Strengthening connections to one’s community can help older adults remain independent while providing much-needed social interaction. Neighborhood groups and organizations like neighborhood watch groups are excellent ways for seniors to become more involved in their local area and forge relationships with those living nearby.
The benefits of maintaining social connections
Improved mental and emotional well-being
Aging in place can have immense benefits for aging adults. One of the most important aspects of that is remaining socially connected. The simple act of reaching out to family, friends, or helpful resources can foster improved mental and emotional well-being. Not only does it benefit seniors not living alone — communication and companionship from others help maintain an active, engaged lifestyle. A lack of social interaction can cause depression and cognitive decline in older adults, so developing meaningful relationships with caregivers and other peers are vitally important for health management during later years.
Increased sense of purpose and fulfillment
Aging in place can have many benefits, chief among them a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment. Making the most of this opportunity to remain independent should not go overlooked; aging in place enables seniors to take charge of their day-to-day lives and be responsible for themselves.
This independence can provide a deeper appreciation for life as well as improved mental health, physicality, and overall wellness. It also creates a safe environment and ensuring an individual’s needs are met also allows senior citizens to stay engaged within their local community while promoting much-needed companionship.
Opportunities for learning and personal growth
Staying in the comfort of your own home as you age has so many advantages, one of which is a unique chance to hone personal growth and abilities. For seniors looking for mental exercises that keep them sharp yet also affordable and enjoyable, there’s no shortage of activities – from taking language classes or delving into new cultures to joining social groups or mastering an art form such as painting or music-making. Take full advantage by broadening horizons with travel experiences too! Whatever it might be, allow yourself special moments daily where learning isn’t just fun but beneficial in enriching life!
Enhanced physical health
Aging in place – the idea of remaining in one’s home as long as possible – has a myriad of benefits. Primarily, staying at home gives elderly individuals an unprecedented level of autonomy and control over the quality of their own lives.
The opportunity to age comfortably while remaining in familiar, comforting surroundings can do wonders for physical health and mobility, both through postponing physical decline that comes with age and by providing access to regular medical care, necessities in daily life such as grocery stores, transportation options and more. As we strive for greater levels of independence for our elders, aging in place should be strongly considered as an immensely beneficial option.
Maintaining Social Connections While Aging In Place FAQs
How can seniors overcome physical limitations and stay socially connected?
There are a variety of different options for seniors to maintain social connections while aging in place. Whether it’s participating in online activities, joining a seniors-only group or club, attending local events and festivals, or connecting with family members through virtual visits, staying socially connected can be done regardless of physical challenges.
Are there online resources for seniors to connect with others and stay active socially?
Yes! Check out this website for a list of online resources for seniors to stay connected. Additionally, many local senior centers and churches offer virtual classes and events specifically designed for elderly individuals.
Can volunteering and giving back to the community help seniors maintain social connections?
Fortunately, volunteering is one of the most efficient ways to combat the effects of isolation and to help seniors maintain happy healthy social lives.
How does maintaining social connections benefit the mental and emotional well-being of seniors aging in place?
According to NCBI, In older adults specifically, research evidence has suggested that a low sense of belonging is associated with depression, suicidal ideation, and hopelessness.
Remaining socially connected not only helps to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, but can also provide a sense of purpose, connection, and belonging.
Are there any financial resources available to help seniors age in place and stay socially connected?
To find out more about your area’s resources, contact your local Area Agency on Aging or state housing finance agency. Additionally, check with the welfare department, community development groups, and government representatives for further assistance.
Conclusion
Maintaining social connections is critical as we age. It can help improve our mental and emotional well-being, give us a sense of purpose and fulfillment, and provide opportunities for learning and personal growth. If you’re looking for ways to stay socially connected, consider joining community groups or organizations, engaging in online social activities or communities, or volunteering and giving back to the community.
And if you need some help getting started, call or schedule a free consultation with me today. I’d be happy to chat with you about aging in place and social connection resources that are available in your area.
