Mental health and the feeling of loneliness is something that is very common in people of all ages all over the world, however, this is an increasing problem in the elderly that is showing no sign of slowing down. In this article, Hallmark Care Homes looks at how care homes in Henley and other locations up and down the UK may be the best solution to reduce loneliness and contribute to a feeling of wellbeing.
Daily activities
One of the ways that a care home can help to better the mental health of elderly residents is through the use of daily activities. By keeping the mind stimulated and encouraging conversation and teamwork, activities can help to improve overall cognitive function, while targeting key parts of the brain, such as creativity, memory and problem solving. By keeping residents interested in daily activities and talking to others, a sense of community is encouraged, allowing people to feel less alone in their experience.
Human interaction
In addition to the daily activities and trips out that are often organised, constant human interaction is extremely beneficial for the mental health of residents. Loneliness is one of the main causes of a negative mood and overall mental health problems and can all be resolved by encouraging conversation with those that are visiting. By having a change of staff day and night as well as family visiting regularly, it can help to increase overall mental health and encourage communication with others. This is beneficial to residents who would not otherwise receive human interaction if they were living at home alone.
Increased quality of life
If an elderly relative is slowly losing their ability to care for themselves, this can affect their mental health as they can begin to feel useless or reliant on loved ones. In this case, a home could be beneficial, to allow them to receive round-the-clock care to help them with their needs - this ensures that loved ones have the time they need day-to-day, all the while ensuring that they are cared for.
Like-minded people
Although there are staff to communicate with, there are also a number of like-minded people in the residential home to keep residents company. With communal seating areas and a number of games and coffee mornings, communication with people of a similar mindset is one of the many benefits of a care home that can help to improve the mood of those living there and provide comfort. In addition, visitors can arrive whenever they like, leaving them free to go about their day-to-day, safe in the knowledge that their loved one is being cared for.
