When a man loses his life partner, adult children often think first about tending to the basic needs, like making sure dad is eating and taking his medication. While these things are important, of course, social and mental wellbeing is also important. As a matter of fact, studies have confirmed that social wellbeing plays an important role in a senior’s physical and mental health.
A man’s social health often suffers after the loss of a partner. He doesn’t just lose a loved one, but also the person with whom he shared meals and conversations and went places with. Sadness and a loss of motivation to get out and socialize are common immediately after losing someone. But often, isolation also sets in, especially when the deceased person was the one who took the lead organizing gatherings social activities.
Home care helped my friend Michael cope after the loss of his partner. Home care services don’t just include helping with the practicalities of daily life. Some services offered by a home care agency can also have a positive impact on a senior’s social and mental wellbeing.
Home care, transportation, and companionship – how it helps
It’s not easy and often not possible to be there for loved ones like Michael when he’s feeling sad, lonely or in need a boost in spirit. Hiring a professional caregiver can help. Along with the vast array of home care services related to the activities of daily living, in-home care services also include joyful companionship and transportation and escorting to activities and appointments.
Our professional caregivers can help clients just like Michael cope with the loss of a life partner by giving them someone to:
- drive them to social events, such as church or get-togethers with friends or family
- accompany them on errands such as shopping or medical appointments
- play games with, go for a walk, or attend a sporting event or movie with
- prepare and share a meal with
Some fun social activities to consider
Here are some engaging social activities that can help a senior widower cope after their loss:
- Volunteering. There is evidence that volunteering helps seniors maintain social contacts and stay active and connected to their communities. Volunteering also promotes a sense of self-worth and keeps them stimulated. All these benefits are good for their emotional and physical wellbeing.
- Walking. Walking helps seniors maintain their independence and health. You can find a walking group in just about every neighbourhood, including mall walking groups. Walking alone, with friend or caregiver, or in a group is a wonderful way to stay fit, enjoy nature, and relieve stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Arts and crafts. You don’t need to be Picasso to enjoy painting or creating art. Seniors centers and community centers offer classes for all levels in painting, drawing, and sculpting. You can also find local groups for scrapbooking, photography, and more. It’s not just fun; art therapy is used to improve quality of life and stimulate the brain in people with dementia.
- Sporting events. If health permits, joining a senior sports league is an exciting way to meet others and stay fit. If you’re more of a spectator, attending sporting events is just as much fun. To keep costs down, skip major sporting events and instead head to the local ballpark or arena to cheer on your local junior hockey, lacrosse, or baseball team.
If you or a loved one is looking for help after the loss of a life partner and would like to learn more about our home care services, give us a call. We’re here to help.
David Porter, CPCA
Director
Living Assistance Services – Senior Home Care
Article Resources:
Volunteering and Older Adults. Volunteer Canada. https://volunteer.ca/vdemo/EngagingVolunteers_DOCS/Volunteering_and_Older_Adults_Final_Report_2013.pdf