Making Human Connections as We Age

What is it we want in life? Some may say it’s the connection with others, whether that is family, friends or community. As we age, we might look back at our life and long for the connections we once had or maybe the ones we never had. Reminiscing is a normal part of aging. What can we do to help our elders feel connected?

Let’s have a chit-chat: There is nothing better than a good old-fashioned “talk.” Seriously, who doesn’t like to be heard? Our elders love to be heard. It helps them feel wanted. Start by asking how their day is and, if the opportunity arises, move into talking about their past. A great way to lead into this is by asking where they grew up and/or what they did for a living.

Some of the day’s most meaningful moments begin with a light conversation. You might walk away thinking that was the best conversation of your life. You may even realize you are connected somehow. Maybe you grew up in the same town or you randomly know the same people. You never know where a conversation might end up.

Using our hands: Connecting while creating can be a powerful thing. There is no pressure to make small talk. Some great ideas for this are puzzles, painting and planting. As you begin to create, the barriers are released and before you know it, you are having a nice time!

What game shall we play? Playing games is a great way to break the ice. It doesn’t have to be one on one, you can get a little group together and play cards, Bingo, Yahtzee or board games such as Sorry and Aggravation.

Go on an outing: This doesn’t have to be a big outing, it can be going for a drive to see the beautiful countryside or maybe you have a specific destination in mind such as a museum or Prescott Square. Either way, it’s all about doing it together.

Staying connected is exactly what the Life Enrichment departments do at both the Margaret T. Morris Assisted Living Center and the Susan J. Rheem Adult Day Center. We do all of these things plus so much more. And guess what? We are looking for volunteers. We need all types of humans to help us connect with the people we serve. Do you want to make a difference in the lives of others and feel connected? Visit our website today to see where you can be of service.  www.adultcareservices.org. QCBN

By Candace Lea

Candace Lea, MBA, is the community liaison and marketing person for Adult Care Services. She also teaches yoga in the Quad Cities Area.  www.adultcareservices.org