Isolation or loneliness is the major underlying problem of seniors in India. The trend of nuclear family has impacted the social life of seniors. The situation becomes even worse in case of senior with dementia.
Imagine a senior, retired many years ago who is now becoming forgetful, and is not able to recognize his family. This person is confused even in familiar surroundings, losing the sense of judgment and going through a lot more. Indeed, with so much going on, anyone will wish to withdraw from social activities. But will it be fair to let the person struggle with these problems alone?
Isolation whether it is social or emotional appears pervasive. It exacerbates the ongoing difficult life of all people with dementia. It can be caused by numerous things like self-stigma, relocation, loss of peers, behavioral changes, inability to participate in activities, mobility issues etc. Close friends who were once very close, now may feel awkward and find themselves at a distance from the person. The result is isolation.
Impact of Isolation
Here are some ways in which isolation impacts people with dementia:
Low self-esteem and worth – Primarily in initial and moderate dementia, seniors have an understanding of their cognitive decline and so they withdraw from social activities. It lowers their confidence and self-esteem. Moreover in some cases, family members fear judgement from others. Due to the stigma they don’t let their loved ones interact with the people which again makes them feel unworthy.- Insecurity – Isolation may increase insecurity and trust issues in your loved one with dementia. They need constant love and care which lacks while they are socially isolated.
- Trigger for depression – Social isolation can also push a senior into depression. Absence of companionship, lack of social interaction, and group engagement can take away purpose of life from them.
- Hallucinations – Problem of hallucinations and delusions can also emerge in an isolated dementia patient. The person may start seeing things or hear voices that don’t exist. This problem generally happens at night which also disturbs their sleep cycle, and further creates problem of sleeplessness.
- Lack of engagement – A lack of socialization is accompanied by a lack of engagement. With more idle time, the person lacks daily stimulation which is important as a way to slow the progress of dementia. A lack of engagement also leads to more agitation, wandering and other behavioral problems.
How to end Isolation
A research conducted by Alzheimer’s Society, UK reveals that 42% of people believe that once a person with dementia stops recognizing loved ones, they don’t benefit a lot from spending time with them, but this is not true. Even if they don’t recognize people, it makes them feel good to have some company. Moreover, we must keep in mind that spending time with dementia patients stimulates the feelings of familiarity, happiness, comfort and security.
Social isolation can be prevented by increasing opportunities of socialization. Here are some ways:
- Enhance interactions – An increase in the face to face interactions or even telephonic conversation can help dementia patients to keep isolation at bay. Moreover, they feel more loved and protected while they see familiar people around.
Organize social outings – Taking your loved out of the house to a movie, picnic, shopping, etc. can be a good way of socializing. Even if the senior has some mobility issues you can try to take them out at least sometime and also invite their friends relatives at home. This will give them a platform / chance to speak to many people.- Group activity – Engaging your loved one with a group activity is not just brain stimulation but a good way of socializing. Board games like carom, chess, Ludo and cards can give them a sense of meaningful engagement.
- Try technological interventions – If your loved one is capable of using gadgets like iPad, smart phones or computer, then we can encourage them to do social networking.
- Join dementia friendly clubs- A sensible and safe environment where your loved one can meet people of same age and similar struggles can really boost their happiness levels. They can make friends, talk to them and even do some brain stimulation activity together.
We at Samvedna Senior Care aim to help seniors live happy, active and independent lives, in the comfort of their home and community through interactive caregiving.
Samvedna Senior Care was established in October 2013 with two complementary goals – firstly to provide quality home care services to seniors with limited mobility or dementia and hence social interaction, and secondly to facilitate stimulating community interaction and participation.
Our Dementia Care services are –
Cognitive Wellness Programme, Sector 57 Gurgaon –
Samvedna’s Cognitive Wellness Programme is designed for seniors with mild cognitive impairment, early dementia or Parkinson’s, and elderly lacking in enthusiasm and motivation. The aim is to stimulate the mind of the elderly to slow the progression of the disease or impairment. The sessions are 3 days a week, 11AM-1PM.
More – http://www.samvednacare.org/our-work/cognitive-wellness-programme
Coming soon – a place where people with dementia, at all stages, can chill and let their hair down. People with dementia also want to laugh, sing, chat and drink tea with their pals. But their disease tends to isolate them from their friends and family. They are all welcome to join us and hopefully they will find a fun activity, a warm chair or a kind friend at this social club for people with dementia.
At-home services –
Dementia intervention activities by trained Care Specialists (already mentioned above). These services are available in Delhi NCR
More – http://www.samvednacare.com/
Please call us for more info – Delhi NCR – 98184 21446, 124 4229659
Dementia Support Group –
Our Dementia Support group in Delhi NCR and Guwahati is a platform for caregivers to share feelings and support each other.
More – http://www.samvednacare.org/our-work/dementia-care
Please call us for more info – Delhi NCR – 98184 21446, 124 4229659
28