If they do not have the support of family members and friends the process of aging can be a very isolating experience for the elderly. Care in maintaining these relationships has demonstrated beneficial results and has been deemed necessary in maintaining the health of the patient. Studies have shown that cognitive function declines rapidly when communication is not maintained on a regular basis with others.
Research has shown us that elderly individuals that have not maintained contact with friends or family members are at a higher risk of developing depression, personality disorders and other cognitive or behavioral issues. Memory, abstract thinking as well as communication skills are all put at risk when a client is not in contact with other individuals, which can expedite the onset of depression.
In the period after retirement, if not in an elderly care environment, individuals are susceptible – as the loss of job leaves many vulnerable to depression. At this point, other activities must be found to engage in that can help to maintain speech, logical thinking, abstract thinking and communication skills. These activities may include classes, community events, volunteer work or the social interaction that comes from being with friends and family members.
Unfortunately, there are many cases in which this support system does not exist. Studies depicting these types of cases demonstrate that a decreased desire to partake in activities with the community or other organizations occur when this support system is lacking. Communication skills may rapidly decline as the client no longer feels the need to communicate with the people surrounding him or her.
Maintaining communication with friends and family members through the process of aging, or making use of an alternate support system is an essential part of healthy aging. Without these measures or techniques, the client becomes susceptible to rapid decline. This is the reason that family members and others within the support system need to maintain the communication in order to prevent a rapid onset of cognitive decline and communication breakdown between the client and the outside world.
Communication should occur on a daily basis with friends and family members through various mediums such as mail, telephone and in-person visits to see the best results on the maintenance of cognitive function.
Avoiding isolation is a key aspect of maintaining the ability to communicate. Caregivers hired through Liberty In Home Care receive extensive training in creating relationships between clients and other members of the community.
Friends and family members often become the sole support system for the elderly. But, in combination with the care that is provided by health care professionals and caregivers, a team can be created that ensures the physical and mental health of the client.
Tags: devon, elderly, elderly care, main line, malvern, mental health, paoli
