Loneliness can be common among seniors for a number of reasons, particularly if they live alone in their own home. Senior living communities like Otterbein SeniorLife recognize this and put immense effort into creating lots of opportunities to stay social and engaged, and meet new people.
How Loneliness Affects Seniors
Research shows that average Americans age 60 and older spend more than half their waking hours completely alone. For those living by themselves, that equates to roughly ten hours a day without any social contact.
It’s no wonder that many older adults report feeling lonely or isolated. And there are reasons for their families to be concerned.
Loneliness often corresponds to adverse health issues among seniors, such as:
- Depression
- Dementia
- Cardiovascular disease
- Other disorders
Furthermore, there is significant scientific evidence indicating that social isolation dramatically increases the risk of dying prematurely, regardless of the underlying cause of death.
While social isolation and loneliness can happen to anyone at any age, older adults often face predisposing factors such as:
- A spouse’s passing
- Retirement
- Chronic illness
- Cognitive impairments
Despite the side effects of isolation, many older adults would rather live alone at home than risk losing their independence in a skilled nursing setting.
A Different Mindset at Otterbein
At Otterbein SeniorLife, we know that maintaining connections with others helps older adults avoid loneliness while allowing them to enjoy their independence.
We encourage individuals to engage with others through our countless social events, educational classes, and informal get-togethers. We also find innovative and enriching ways to link residents with people outside our communities. As a result, Otterbein residents can live on their own without forgoing continuing contact with other people.
How Otterbein Can Enrich Your Social Life
For many lonely seniors, moving to Otterbein can be a positive life-altering experience. We offer residents opportunities to make new friends, socialize with their neighbors within comfortable living and dining areas, and connect to the world around them.
Here are some ways residents enjoy interacting with each other:
- Mealtimes together in on-site dining venues
- Weekly social events and gatherings
- Off-site trips and excursions
- Intermingling with nearby neighbors
The companionship residents discover at Otterbein gives their lives renewed purpose and helps restore the vitality lost by spending too much time alone. With a rekindled love of life, their physical and mental health often improves.
There’s Something for Everyone to Enjoy at Otterbein
Watch the video below to discover how Otterbein residents love to get involved and interact with others who share the same interests and passions.
More About Independent Living at Otterbein SeniorLife