As a dental practitioner, you may see a large number of elderly people on a daily basis. However, have you ever considered that some of them may be coping with social isolation? Over 50% of those aged 70 and over in the UK live alone and may have little family left to visit them.
To help them battle this and prevent depression and other illnesses you can try to:
- Direct them to their GP
- Encourage them to use Facebook and other sites to interact
- Ask if they would consider adopting a pet
- Direct them to websites and articles online
The most important thing you can do is show you care and engage in some conversation as you may be the only person they speak to that day. What can we all do to help our loved ones? Do some research. This informative article details what further action you can take to help an elderly person battle social isolation.
Here's Why You Should Call Your Grandparents
Posted by Gemma