Studies have proven that social isolation can be detrimental
to your physical health. With that in
mind, we must all make efforts to remain engaged in outside activities, not
only for our mental health, but also for our physical well-being!
What is Social Isolation?
When a person experiences too much solitude or feels socially isolated
from others, he or she may develop feelings of loneliness, anxiety, depression,
and hopelessness.
We can find ourselves in social isolation after an illness
or injury, loss of a spouse, extended severe winter weather, or when
experiencing bouts of depression.
Suddenly, we find ourselves at home, with little or no contact from the
outside world. This decreased
interaction with others and lack of mental stimulation from the environment
leads to lackluster feelings and the potential spiral into negative health
consequences.
Continued from e-newsletter.
Making a conscious effort to remain engaged with others is
crucial to combat social isolation and benefit our physical health. Consider these tips to avoid isolation:
1. Take stock of hobbies you enjoy and share them with
others. Not only is it important to do
what we like, but pairing that with social interaction doubles the benefits
obtained.
2. Volunteer. Moving
outside of ourselves to help others can create a strong sense of satisfaction
and reward.
3. Try doing something new every month. Try a new recipe and share it with someone
who is homebound. Check the newspaper
for community events in your city.
Attend a free lecture. Walk the
mall. Visit the library. Seek out places where people gather and join
in with the group.
4. Help out a caregiver.
Giving a caregiver two or three
hours of your time so they can leave the house and run necessary errands, or
take care of their own medical needs decreases the social isolation for the
caregiver, the care receiver, and for
you too!
5. Invite people to your home if getting out is a
challenge. Keep it simple. Brew a pot of tea. Arrange a tray of cookies.
There are proven psychological benefits
from sharing a snack or meal with others.
6. Volunteer to call others who may be at home and need
someone to check on them. Not only are
you providing socialization for others, you are getting some for yourself!
7. Visit your Senior Center and partake in the myriad of
activities offered. You may run into old
friends or make new ones!
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