Useful Resources for Isolated Seniors

Useful Resources for Seniors With No Relatives to Turn to

In the U.S., 27 percent of adults 60 or older live alone, says Pew Research. Many have few or no relatives nearby either, making them solo seniors or elder orphans. The lack of a family support network can make daily living a challenge, especially if they have health issues. If you’re one of these solo seniors, don’t worry – help is always at hand. The helpful resources below can help make life much easier and more manageable:

Basic day-to-day living necessities

Help for day-to-day living like household upkeep, chores, and money management is available from private and government groups:

• Community resources like your local senior center, city hall, and library can share useful information, refer you to senior-specific services, and often offer direct assistance.
• Eldercare locator allows you to search for helpful services – like housekeeping and handymen – in your neighborhood.
• You can get help with money management and even receive a substitute income from certain sources.
• Moving into an assisted living community is always an option. You can live semi-independently while being helped.  

Healthcare and healthy living

Maintaining your health should be your priority as a senior. That involves both seeking healthcare externally if you need it and also taking care of yourself:

• You can order healthy meals that fit your dietary needs through a site like Global Meals.
• You can use Medicare to pay for counseling services, psychologists, and therapy.
• Physical exercise, mental care, and preventative care are necessary to maintain your all-around health.

Social and emotional support

Surrounding yourself with good people helps you gain social support. It’s equally important you support yourself internally too.

• Senior companionship programs like AmeriCorps help you find buddies who give you companionship as well as help.
• You can sign up for fun activities, programs, and meals in a community setting at your local senior center.
• Stress, unfortunately, can’t be prevented. But you can manage and reduce it with simple exercises and self-care.

Conclusion

Countless solo seniors manage to build enjoyable, fulfilling lives for themselves even with no relatives to turn to – and so can you! Focus on the positives, seek help, and connect with other people- your age or otherwise – and you will be happy and comfortable.

Image via Unsplash
Guest Writer Annabelle Harris of elders.center