Social Issues Affecting Older Adults

While many older adults face physical challenges, such as a decline in their ability to do daily activities on a functional level, disorders, and other disabilities, social issues play a major role in general well-being.

CHOICE Advisors know how crucial it is to ask about a senior’s social history before considering a long-term care community such as assisted living or an adult care home. Some aspects of social history include marital/companion/familial status, work history, living arrangements, financial status, typical daily activities including meals, and the need for and availability of caregivers. [The caregiving responsibilities of the older adult can be an important factor if they feel responsible for the well-being of others.]

Living along can be difficult for a number of reasons. It can lead to feeling isolated or lonely, mal- or undernutrition, accidents or an unnoticed decline in health, and the misuse of prescriptions. Because eating is typically a social activity, many seniors prepare poorly balanced meals or even skip some throughout the day. The worsening of memory, hearing, and eyesight loss may be overlooked without frequent access to caregivers or family members. Falls may become more likely and medications may be forgotten.

The fear of loss of independence tends to be the driving force for staying at home, but exercising regularly and engaging in social activities directly result in a happier, healthier, longer life.

Actions that tend to be neglected are keeping clothes clean, paying bills, and staying hydrate and well-nourished. Homes may be filthy or dangerous and in need of repairs. Moving to a community where some of these activities are taken care of by staff members and there are people to interact with may actually lead to more independence.

Here at CHOICE, we take all aspects of your loved one’s life – care needs, social and location preferences – and provide you with personalized options to help you make an informed decision. We tour communities with you, asking questions and guiding you through the process to make sure you find the right fit.

Call CHOICE Advisory Services to get started today – 1-800-361-0138