Combating Loneliness with Community and Connection

As a home health business owner and nurse of over 15 years, I’ve witnessed how loneliness can impact the overall well-being of our aging loved ones. But fear not, there are many ways to tackle this and make their golden years truly shine. Here are five heartfelt and creative strategies that emphasize community and connection. Let’s dive in.

#1: Stay Socially Active

Keeping up with social connections is crucial. Here are some fun and engaging ways to ensure your parents stay socially active: 

- Host Regular Family Gatherings: Schedule weekly or monthly family dinners, game nights, or picnics. Rotate the host so everyone feels involved and it gives your parents something to look forward to. Remember, it doesn’t have to be a 5-star meal or a fancy occasion.  I have a client who has a weekly pizza and movie night with her family. It is the outing she looks forward to most each week!  


- Join Clubs or Groups: Encourage them to join clubs or groups that align with their interests, whether it’s a book or bridge club, gardening group, or a knitting circle. Look for senior groups in your hometown at places like churches, libraries and community centers.

- Volunteer Opportunities: Many older adults find great satisfaction in giving back. Look for volunteer opportunities that align with their passions, such as helping at local schools, libraries, food banks, or community centers. My grandfather used to volunteer at the local nursing home; assisting people similar in age not only allows them to give back but also share common interests, share memories and build relationships. 


#2: Embrace Technology

Technology such as basic television can actually create more isolation and loneliness but other forms of technology can be a wonderful bridge to keep loneliness at bay and create connection instead of isolation. Here’s how to make it work for them:

- Virtual Gatherings: Teach them to use video calling apps like Zoom or FaceTime to catch up with family and friends instead of just a phone call. It is so nice to see a loving face and see the person’s surroundings to really connect and drive the conversation.  Regular video calls can make a huge difference in feeling connected. Also, some organizations do virtual meetings.  I have a client in Colorado who still attends her weekly rotary meetings in Minnesota via Zoom. She can contribute to something meaningful to her as well as keep up with old friends.


- Social Media Savvy: Help them set up and navigate social media platforms to stay updated with family photos, events, and reconnect with old friends.


- Online Classes: Enroll them in online classes or workshops. Whether it’s learning a new language, taking up painting, or cooking classes, the internet offers a treasure trove of options. YouTube is another great option for learning new things.  I have a client who is teaching himself violin at 93 years old by watching YouTube videos. Amazing!! 


#3: Consider Pet Companionship

Pets can be incredible companions, providing both emotional and physical benefits. However, make sure you consider the physical demands and different personalities animals can bring and be sure to match the right pet/animal with your loved one.  Something as simple as a fish can provide companionship and purpose to an elder with very little care needs.  

- Adopt a Pet: If they’re up for it and able, adopting a pet can be life-changing. Dogs, cats, or even birds can offer unconditional love and a sense of purpose. Programs that allow seniors to adopt senior animals is a great option.  Win-Win for the person and pet! 


- Pet Therapy Programs: If adopting isn’t an option, consider local pet therapy programs where trained animals visit seniors regularly.


- Foster Pets: Another option is fostering pets. This way, they get the companionship without the long-term commitment.


- Stuffed animals and mechanical pets: I have seen this work as a wonderful option for people with dementia or Alzheimers. The comfort of a soft stuffed animal or a cat that actually purrs can be a companion that provides great comfort with no care needs.  Here are two great options:

Perfect Petzzz

Joy For All Companion Pet

#4: Encourage Physical Activity

Staying physically active not only improves health but also enhances mood and fosters social connections.

- Join Fitness Classes: Find local senior fitness classes like yoga, tai chi, or water aerobics. These classes often double as social gatherings.

- Daily Walks: Encourage a daily walk routine, possibly with a neighbor or a walking group. Fresh air and a bit of exercise can do wonders.

- Dance Classes: Many communities offer dance classes for seniors. It’s a fun way to stay active and meet new people.

#5: Creative and Engaging Hobbies

Engaging in hobbies can provide joy and a sense of accomplishment, helping to alleviate loneliness. Of course, encouraging picking up a new hobby is great but, also finding a group of doing a hobby that your loved one already enjoys is nice too. This gives your loved one the confidence to join a new group so they can concentrate on relationships instead of the skill. Also, ensure the hobby fits the person; Bingo isn’t for everyone! 

- Arts and Crafts: Set up a craft station at home or find local art classes. Painting, knitting, and woodworking can be both relaxing and fulfilling.

- Music and Choir Groups: If they enjoy music, joining a choir or a musical group can be a fantastic way to meet like-minded individuals.

- Gardening: Whether they have a garden or just a few pots on the windowsill, gardening can be a soothing and rewarding activity.

I hope these suggestions spark some ideas and gives you a platform to start a conversation with your loved one. Remember, it’s the little things that often make the biggest difference. Sometimes, just a regular phone call or a shared cup of tea can mean the world to them.

Together…