4 ways to reduce loneliness in seniors with Alzheimers or dementia

Loneliness and isolation can worsen dementia symptoms and suppress the immune system. To combat this, here are four meaningful ways to help seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia stay connected and enjoy life.

Combat loneliness in seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia

Older adults living with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia are especially vulnerable to the effects of social isolation and loneliness.

Dementia also makes it difficult to maintain relationships or participate in social activities, which often creates detachment from family and friends.

It can be tough for family caregivers to watch someone they care about go through this.

And it’s especially hard when one of your main goals is to help them feel supported, connected, and engaged in their own life.

To combat loneliness and isolation, try these 4 meaningful ways to help someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia feel connected and enjoy life more.

1. Encourage spending time in nature

Getting outside for just 10 or 20 minutes is a safe way to get the mood boosting effects of fresh air and natural scenery.

Spending time in nature can enhance mood, increase short-term memory, and even improve depression.

So, take your older adult for a walk around the neighborhood, help them grow plants in the backyard, or explore a quiet nature trail or wildlife preserve together.

2. Work on a craft project or hobby together

Art therapy is thought to slow the pace of cognitive decline and reduce anxiety, depression, anger or sadness.

And sensory and tactile stimulation through hobbies or crafts help someone with dementia to express themselves creatively.

This type of outlet is especially helpful for people who have a difficult time with verbal communication.

To find something they’ll enjoy, think about your older adult’s previous interests and hobbies and find ways to adapt them to suit their current abilities.

Plus, don’t be afraid to try something that they’ve never done before.

3. Coordinate visits or calls from family and friends

Even if your older adult doesn’t always remember each person in the family, it can be a source of comfort when they reach out and connect.

For family and friends living in the area, set visits up for success by arranging them at times of day when they’re feeling their best and creating a calm, quiet environment.

Here are some ideas to help seniors stay in touch with people living far away:

• Organize a virtual group meal for your older adult and other family members on Zoom, Skype, FaceTime, or Google Meet.
• Ask family and friends to send handwritten notes to your older adult, then read the letters aloud together as they arrive in the mail. And if they would enjoy the activity, your older adult could write or draw responses to be mailed back.
• Coordinate phone calls with a different family member each week.

4. Find supportive mental health services

Since the impact of dementia on mental health is so acute, your older adult might need help to cope with the major changes in their life.

Getting support for their mental health can make a big difference in your older adult’s outlook, behaviour, and emotional regulation.