It was not that long ago that people were isolating from one another to guard against spreading COVID-19. Seniors were particularly vulnerable, so additional precautions were taken to keep them safe. Solitary lifestyles adopted out of necessity became the new norm for a number of seniors who have yet to break out of this isolation. You may be in the position to help an older adult with social vulnerability.
We have learned that there are dangerous health risks to social deprivation. Social frailty, also called social vulnerability, is more common than both cognitive and physical frailty combined, according to a recently available research study. Those who are socially frail can feel abandoned, devalued, and afraid about who to turn to in a time of need. Social frailty is also linked to poor health outcomes – meaning it’s crucial for physicians to screen for it during normal examinations.
How Can You Determine if an Older Adult Is at Risk for Social Frailty?
A geriatrician will know to screen for social vulnerability. If an older loved one sees a general practice physician, however, you can ask them to use the Social Frailty Index to determine risk. This includes routinely assessing the person’s level of loneliness and social isolation, access to internet services, obstacles to transportation, and more.
You can start by asking an older loved one to self-assess their social vulnerability by honestly answering the following five questions:
- Are you living alone?
- Do you spend time visiting with family and friends?
- Are you going out less often now than you did last year?
- Are you speaking with someone each day?
- Do you feel as though you are helpful to your friends and family?
With these answers in hand and the doctor’s recommendations, you can help a senior loved one adjust their lifestyle to include more time for socializing. Try:
- Scheduling regular visits, and if possible, outings with the person. Take them out to coffee, museums, the library, or window shopping. Or spend quality time at home together, reminiscing and looking through photo albums, making favorite dishes together, and gleaning any advice and wisdom they have to share.
- Research local senior centers and classes specifically geared towards older adults. Talk with the individual regarding what may be fun to try: bingo night, aerobics, learning a brand new language, volunteering, etc.
- Work together to create a list of neighbors, family members, and friends the person has not been in touch with as much as they might like. Get in touch with these people to schedule visits and get-togethers.
Independence-4-Seniors Home Care provides another excellent solution: highly trained and cheerful in-home caregiving companions. We offer opportunities for reminiscing, conversations, fun activities and outings, and so much more. Call us at 630-323-4665 or contact us online for a complimentary in-home consultation today!