Elderly Home Care and Depression in Seniors

Senior Health  |  February 8, 2021

What Every Senior in Edmonton, AB Needs to Know About Depression and the Benefits of In-Home Care

Elderly Home Care and Depression | No matter what age we are, living a life of purpose, connection, and joy is critical for our physical and mental well-being. For older adults, a variety of obstacles like vision loss, social isolation, mobility problems, and memory issues can make enjoying life more difficult. 

Elderly Home Care and Depression: Why Should Seniors Focus on Their Mental Health?

• Socially isolated seniors have a 59% greater risk of mental and physical decline than those who do not experience social isolation (Forbes). 
• The health effects of social isolation and loneliness on seniors are equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes per day (AARP.org). 
• Depression in the elderly is associated with an increased risk of cardiac diseases and risk of death from illness (WebMD).

Signs of depression in seniors can include a change in attitude, self-isolation, weight loss, fatigue, or lack of interest in once-enjoyable activities.

For older adults who want to improve their quality of life through enhanced mental health, there are a few things they can do to kick off their healthy habits.

Elderly Home Care and Depression: Healthy Habits for Seniors

• Exercise – Seniors should always consult with a physician before starting any physical activity or fitness program. Seniors that are able, and approved, to exercise may see increased physical and mental wellness. Exercise has been proven to have a positive effect on the brain.
• Connection – At any age, many people find joy in spending time with family and friends. Social isolation can be a problem for seniors who have mobility issues or aren’t able to drive, or who have loved ones who live far away. However, some services can help overcome these issues, including transportation help, in-home care assistance, technology that fosters connection, and other outside sources of help. 
• Volunteering – Sharing time and talents doing volunteer work can bring a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Many organizations have programs and volunteer opportunities specifically geared to older adults.
• Spending time on joyful activities – Everyone has a different interest or hobby that brings joy, whether that’s music, art, dance, gardening, or games. Seniors should try to spend time doing something that brings them happiness daily to improve their quality of life.

Comfort Keepers® in Edmonton Can Help with In-Home Elderly Care!

If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help. Comfort Keepers®’ trained caregivers help provide senior clients with the highest quality of life possible to keep them happy and healthy at home. 

Companionship and Interactive Caregiving™

Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs).

Moreover, our trained caregivers are selected with one specific quality in mind: empathy. Empathetic care is care that starts in the heart, and it allows us to meet our client’s exact needs. 

Learn more about our unique service offering by contacting the Comfort Keepers Edmonton office. If you live in Devon, Edmonton, Sherwood Park, or Stony Plain and surrounding areas, contact Comfort Keepers at 780-465-4665.

Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is an Approved Service Provider for the Client Directed Homecare Invoicing Program Offered by Alberta Health Services. Is Invoicing the Right Option for You?  Read more about the program HERE.

Comfort Keepers Edmonton is here to help you and your loved ones get the best care possible. Awarded the “Accredited with Exemplary Standing” seal by Accreditation Canada. Our Edmonton location has achieved the highest available certification in Canada for Home Care services, clearly demonstrating Comfort Keepers’ commitment to offering safe, high-quality home care to its senior clients in Edmonton.

References

Science Daily/McMaster University. “Working it Out: Researchers find exercise may help fight depression in Seniors.” Web. 2019.

WebMD. “Depression in the Elderly.” Web.

Healthline. “Geriatric Depression (Depression in Older Adults).” Web.

Mental Health Commission of Canada.  “Seniors”.  Web.

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