Don't Isolate Our Seniors

There are so many seniors across our country that live at home and are isolated.These seniors are isolated due to physical limitations in getting around. They have no families or friends nearby. They want to stay at home for the rest of their lives. Many think that moving to a facility is a death sentence. How can we reach out to these seniors? How can we help them feel at home without that dreaded isolation? How can we help them feel more comfortable when it is time for assisted living. How can we assure them they are loved and cared for.

Being 80 years of age myself, I know my limitations and I am fortunate to live in a 55 plus community. I am comfortable in my own home and find my neighbors some of the happiest people in this world. There are 100+ clubs all conducted on a volunteer basis. We have all kinds of events from exercises, games and concerts. Outside community partnerships bring us educational and fun events. There are many amenities here: a lake to enjoy;
many trails to walk; and sports facilities to enjoy. But one of the nicest things about our community is the neighborhood care committee.We stay in touch with our neighbors and share with carpooling to local functions, dining, shopping and the list goes on.What worries me are the older folks who do not live in a retirement community like mine.

So many things come into play when it comes to helping isolated seniors. It doesn't matter whether they live at home or some type facility. People think they are too busy-not enough time in the day. Costs and under staffing creates a stressful situation when it comes to providing the care the seniors need.What good is the best facility in the world when it does not provide the loved, friendship and the feeling of being wanted.

All ages can participate in a "Don't Isolate Our Seniors" A dream world of the Walton's where three generations co-exist is a good thing. We can fill that void of money and staff with our new technologies, our power of creative thinking and people willing to share.

My first step to help my senior friends was to share what I had learned from training and walking a 5K with my 4 wheeled "Cadillac" walker for my 80th birthday. Walking with my trainer, daughter was such a refreshing self-care time for both of us. we shared the out of doors, a little family time and exercise. My personal desire is to promote "Walk With A Senior Campaign."

Here are some of my thoughts about sharing with our isolated seniors.
Start with a mother, grandmother, elderly aunt or uncle. Just around in their neighborhood or maybe a nearby park. Walk in the Mall. Be creative. A Weight Watchers group can do this as they exercise to lose weight.

Promote the idea of community service credits towards graduation for seniors in high school to share time and relieve the understaffed care providers. Students can serve and be trained as part of a nursing career by adding Senior facilities as part of their internship curriculum.

Let me know your thoughts on how we can provide a little self-care for ourselves at no cost and provide our vintage souls with a little friendship they so deserve.