Many elderly just stay home and watch tv or sit around and do nothing. This could seriously cause depression or other things relating to their mental state. In my perspective, a great way for elderly to combat loneliness is by being more social.

Park

A great way for elderly to combat loneliness is going out to a park. They could take leisurely walks and even just sit on a park bench and feed pigeons. It could help connect them more to nature and maybe even keep them in shape. In going to the park they could meet other elderly and have a fun time walking and discussing things with them. It could help them get more friends.

Elderly Community Center

Another great way for elderly to combat loneliness is to go to their local Elderly community center. The reason is in these places there are many fun activities for elderly people to do such as taking dance lessons, playing board games such as chess and scrabble, and just hanging out with others their age. This could seriously up their mood to make them more joyful and actually want to go places. They would be able to discuss their problems with others they would be more comfortable with discussing and have a fun time.

Taking Classes

Taking classes could not only help elderly meet others, but to also get better at a hobby. For example if Bobby really loved golf he could join a golf club and take classes. Not only would he get better at golf, a sport he loves, but also make friends who also like golf. Then his friends and him could practice with each other and get to know each other more. Not only would he get friends but he would get friends who like the same thing as him.

Video Games

I could imagine some elderly playing video games. They could relive experiences from when they were younger and find game consoles that they used when they were in their younger ages. There are many elderly youtubers who have fun playing games with others and enjoy it. For example Shirley Curry who plays Skyrim and has over a million subscribers. She always addresses everyone as her kids in the beginning of each episode and enjoys uploading videos. 

Having a Pet

Having a pet at home prevents loneliness, since you will always be with someone at home. Pets are loving, caring, and helpful in various ways. If you want a pet which doesn’t require much physical assistance, try adopting a cat. If you want an energetic pet, adopt a dog. If you just want to talk with a pet that doesn’t really cause you so much trouble, try adopting a pet fish. Pets might appear as more work, but it’s worth it to keep your spirits high. 

Spending Time with Family and Friends

The time is better with your family and friends. Make a day or two of staying at a friend’s home or plan for a family reunion. My grandparents flew halfway across the globe just to spend a year with my family. Having a phone to video call a friend or family member is also a smart way to keep yourself entertained. Set up a recurring meeting day of the week with people you are friends with or host potlucks at least once a month. Our family set up zoom meetings with our cousins to talk amongst each other. Meet up with friends as much as you need to in order to not feel lonely. 

Cooking

Another way to relieve stress and loneliness is to cook. Cooking is a way to test your creativity and have a great meal afterwards! Many say that cooking is like science, and cooking is a unique way of expressing yourself. If you are lonely at home, try making Comfort Food.

Playing an Instrument

Another  way to have fun and learn new things is to play an instrument. Playing an instrument gives many opportunities like joining a band, or taking lessons with someone who is willing to teach you. It is calming and is very fun to play.

Grocery

You could also help reduce loneliness in elders by giving them assistance with their groceries. If you have any neighbors that are elderly and see them bringing groceries into their house, you could walk over to help out. While putting the groceries in the house, you could start a conversation and talk to them. This idea can help elders with their workload and give them a break from their loneliness!

Cards

Making and writing cards with positive messages is another way you can make an elder happy and less lonely. When elders receive cards with drawings and messages, they feel special. Elders would appreciate the time and effort spent on making the card. In this idea, you just have to get some crayons or other art supplies and paper. You would have an opportunity to contribute to making an elder happy and practicing your art or lettering skills. This idea will get you thinking creatively! Once you are done with making the cards, you can give them to an elder you know or send them to an unknown elder. Either way, you are going to reduce the loneliness elders feel!!

Baked Goods

Loneliness in elders will also reduce if they receive baked goods. If you have time and enjoy baking, then this is the best option for you to help out an elder. You can bake something homemade whether it is cookies, brownies, or cake. You choose! You just have to bake and then give the baked goods to an elder. Elders will be grateful and less lonely. You will even get a chance to talk with elders, reducing their loneliness even more. 

Take Away 

There are many ways for elderly to be more social and enjoy their time. I hope that this article could help somebody combat their loneliness. Thank you for taking time to read this article.