The Holiday season is a wonderful time, with people and families getting together to celebrate and enjoy one another’s company. This time of year is greatly looked forward to by seniors in residential care in Vernon. Unfortunately, once the holidays come to an end, and people get back to their busy lives, many seniors are forgotten.

Loneliness & Isolation

Aging alone can be very difficult, and there is a real risk that constant loneliness and isolation can lead to many senior health problems. Often, when the Christmas and Holiday season comes to an end, seniors are forgotten, and the visits they enjoyed come to an end.

It is important not to forget to continue to spend time with loved ones after the holidays, to avoid these feelings of loneliness and isolation from taking hold. In fact, continuing regular visits is important in helping your loved one remain healthy. Research has shown that seniors who feel lonely are more likely to develop high blood pressure, obesity, heart disease, depression, weakened immune systems, Alzheimer’s disease, and premature death.

To prevent or reduce the chance of one of these diseases being linked to loneliness, make sure you visit as often as you are able to. It is also important to make sure these visits are meaningful, and you make it clear that you are happy and excited to be there visiting. Avoid looking at your phone, and try to engage in real conversation while visiting.

Of course, most importantly, make sure that you do not forget about your loved one living in a Vernon retirement home after the holidays. This is extremely important in keeping loneliness at bay, and showing seniors they are loved and cared for.