If you are a caregiver for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease (AD), you may already know just what a challenge it can be to stay socially engaged on a regular basis. As your loved one’s disease progresses, many folks with Alzheimer’s disease become more and more isolated, as do their caregivers.
Boredom and isolation is a serious concern in many older adults as a result of health limitations that keep them at home and limit their ability to get out and socialize. This is no minor problem-isolation and boredom can severely impact one’s physical and mental health and is a common factor in depression-particularly in seniors.
Socially interacting not only helps improve our mood and helps stave off depression, it also helps the memory and contributes to overall brain health. Experts know that staying socially active is an important aspect in maintaining overall health-particularly for those dealing with the daily stress of caring for a loved one with AD. Considering your busy schedule, how can you avoid the pitfalls of becoming socially isolated? Here are some great tips:
Make an effort to be friendly and get to know neighbors and others in your community
Go for regular walks each day (with your loved one is he/she is able) to get exercise and meet others who live nearby.
When it’s impossible to leave the house, be sure to make an effort to talk to friends on the phone or use a computer or iPad to maintain regular communication with others. If you don’t know how to use a computer, ask a relative or friend to do an online search to find out about local non-profits that help seniors learn the latest in computer technology. Most community colleges offer low cost adult classes in the basics in computer use as well.
Check out your local community center for free adult education classes, or contact a local community college to inquire about auditing a class-meaning you get to attend the class for free but don’t get college credit. Signing up for free adult classes provides a great opportunity to meet new people.
Learn more about Alzheimer’s disease for caregivers by CLICKING HERE to join our 25 lesson course at AlzU.org.
