When families in Arlington Heights are in search of a reliable nursing home facility for their loved one, chances are they are looking for a place where their family member will be well cared for and still be able to experience the excitement and fulfillment of life.
Their effort to assess the health and happiness of their family member on a frequent basis may help them to identify signs of neglect or abuse to guarantee that their family member’s experience is as rewarding as possible.
The importance of adequate social interaction
According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services National Institute on Aging, research performed to show the connection between social isolation and declining health has revealed that people who are lonely or socially isolated may experience worsening health. Effects may include the following:
- Depression
- Alzheimer’s Disease
- High Blood Pressure
- Obesity
- Death
Socializing increases enjoyment
Elderly people who continue to socialize and interact with other people even while in a nursing home may experience much more enjoyment in life. Psychology Today suggests some ways that seniors can continue to socialize including helping grandchildren with homework, getting to know their neighbors, participating in a community group, volunteering, and playing a group game or sport. Experts suggest that healthy socializing may actually increase a person’s lifespan. Because of an increase in their mental health, people may also be more effective at avoiding debilitating mental conditions such as dementia or Alzheimer’s.
If people notice that their once-friendly and socially outgoing family member has become withdrawn or seemingly uninterested in connecting with and interacting with others, it could indicate they are being mistreated or neglected. Families who watch for such changes may be able to implement solutions before persistent isolation causes irreversible damage.
