Issue link: http://publications.winnipegfreepress.com/i/1507651
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2023 | Active Aging Week 11 CARE acronym: Connections (is the person lonely?); Activities (does the person lack participation in meaningful activities?); Relationships (do they have contact with family or friends?); and Emergency contact (do they have someone they can call in a crisis?). There's also Dwelling: do they live alone in a safe environment? The good news is that there are plenty of opportunities available for older adults to make social connections, such as clubs and activities offered by community organizations and volunteer work. Menec recommends exploring the activities available in the community, with a good source of information being the 211 Manitoba phone info line or website. While some older adults may not be tech-savvy or have access to the Internet, there are also activities and supports available by phone. A good example is the A&O Support Services for Older Adults' Senior Centre Without Walls program, a free service offering programs via phone for those who may be housebound or socially isolated. Menec says that in-person contact is always the best bet in lending a helping hand to those who may be socially isolated. It can start with a simple conversation. "Ask about the person's interests and find out what might be holding them back from pursuing them. Then, make suggestions about activities they might enjoy. "People who are socially isolated or lonely may not be ready to engage with others," says Menec. "Reasons include low self- esteem, lack of self-confidence, or even social anxiety." Consequently, it may take time – and plenty of encouragement – for a person to get socially connected. "There are many community organizations that offer a wide range of activities. The challenge is to reach those who are feeling socially isolated. There is something for everybody," she says. SOCIAL ISOLATION AND LONELINESS ARE ALSO NEGATIVELY RELATED TO MENTAL HEALTH. LONELINESS, IN PARTICULAR, IS STRONGLY RELATED TO DEPRESSION." Dr. Verena Menec, professor in the department of community health services Community Health Sciences, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Manitoba " Having a friendly chat in a beautiful setting can be very therapeutic. B E A C T I V E www.manitobaseniorcommunities.ca Find a centre near you Visit our website 204-792-5838 info@manitobaseniorcommunities.ca Join a centre in your area Exercise your body and brain to stay active and alive all year long. Centres are places where older adults come together to improve their health and quality of life, for services and programs, and to support personal independence and encourage involvement in community life. Visit our website today for a complete listing of Centres in Manitoba. We may have a Centre near you! Join a Centre Today! Be Active All A round!