The past year has been stressful for everyone, especially those who require senior care. Ventura, CA families have faced tough decisions about whether to visit their aging loved ones, how to do so safely, and what kind of in-home care options are best for their loved ones. At the same time, many seniors have struggled with isolation and loneliness as fewer family members have visited and community centers have closed their doors. Very real fears over health concerns have also taken a toll, especially for those with chronic health conditions. Ventura, CA residents of all ages are starting to feel safer and more comfortable going out, though, with COVID-19 infection rates dropping and vaccines becoming more widely available. While there is still a need to stay safe amid the health concerns, seniors and caregivers alike are feeling more optimistic about stepping out and enjoying their local community to the fullest again.
Combatting Isolation and Loneliness in Aging Adults
It’s important to remember that isolation and loneliness are always a concern for aging adults, which is one of the top reasons why families seek in-home elderly care. Ventura, CA families can’t always be there to provide companionship for older loved ones who are homebound due to distance, scheduling, transportation concerns, and personal responsibilities. The events of the past year have only made this problem more severe. It hasn’t all been bad news, of course, as many older adults have taken the opportunity to learn new skills and find new ways to keep in touch with their family through technology and creative arrangements. Many of Home Instead’s CAREGivers have also reported older adults getting back into old hobbies and continuing their education during this time. But the fact remains that more than 60 percent of people over the age of 50 have reported feelings of isolation since March of 2020, according to the American Association of Retired Persons.
Confidence to Step Outdoors and See Others
Many older adults, as well as loved ones and caregivers, are now feeling more comfortable getting out again with the right precautions in place. More than 60 percent of adults in Ventura County have had at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine and infection rates are going down across the board. As a result, more outdoor family gatherings are happening in locations across the region including parks, beaches, backyards, and community gathering places. Local trips are also a great way to get out again while staying safe and enjoying everything this beautiful area has to offer. Since mobility and transportation are among Home Instead’s essential services for senior home care, Ventura, CA adults without their own means of transportation can still get outdoors to enjoy their local communities and see people safely with the assistance they need.
Home Instead provides many services that help aging adults to live better lives with reduced feelings of depression and loneliness, including companionship, home assistance, and personal care for seniors. Ventura, CA families can rely on Home Instead to continue keeping their older loved ones safe and comfortable as we all start feeling more optimistic about stepping out again.
