For families and caregivers, the decision to bring an Activity Companion to meet with their loved ones for the first time can be confusing. There’s a lot of information and options coming at you at the same time. We believe Activity Companionship can make a big difference in the life of an older person, particularly if they are experiencing social isolation due to changing health conditions or recent loss.
Who would benefit from an Activity Companion? People living with a socially isolating condition, including dementia, Alzheimer’s, autism, cancer, Parkinson’s disease, other disabilities (including children and young adults), or a home-bound elderly senior.
Here are the top 3 benefits an Activity Companion can bring:
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ENGAGEMENT/SOCIALIZATION
- There is vast research and studies behind the risks of social isolation and loneliness for the elderly (see end of this blog post)
- New studies show quality of life can dramatically improve with social interaction for those suffering from dementia
- Activity Companions are the perfect way to bring engagement and socialization because they are there for just one purpose: to spend time with your love ones
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BRAIN STIMULATION
- Many studies show the importance of keeping the brain and senses stimulated at an older age
- Cognitive exercises (brain stimulation) can help improve working memory and executive functioning
- New experiences, such as exercise or listening to music, can also create sensations in the brain
- Activity Companions can play puzzles, word games, work on art, etc. with your loved ones, providing brain mental stimulation
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JOY AND EMOTIONAL SUPPORT
- Research shows a happier life can outweigh “good genes” to help us live longer
- Bringing in emotional support from the outside can provide some respite to families and caregivers
- Activity Companions provide the opportunity to bring in joy, fun and happiness to an aging loved one
For further reading on published research and studies, visit the following:
- NY Times (December 2017) – The Surprising Effects of Loneliness on Health
- NPR (July 2017) – Social Interaction Improves Quality Of Life For People With Dementia
- A Place for Mom (May 2017) – 20 Facts about Senior Isolation That Will Stun You
- Harvard Gazette (April 2017) – Good genes are nice, but joy is better
- McMaster Optimal Aging (April 2016) – Loneliness and social isolation are important health risks in the elderly