You didn’t have to be an Oprah fan to know that after 25 years, Oprah was ending her daytime show. There were several nights of star-studded events and then a rather quiet last show on a Wednesday afternoon. I’m not writing this to lament Oprah’s decision to end her show, but rather to discuss how this leaves a big hole in many people’s lives – especially some of our senior loved ones. For many seniors, especially for those who live alone, TV is a big part of everyday life. It’s a voice in the house, something that entertains and informs, something that keeps them company. And, we need to be aware of, and sensitive to, how a favorite show going off the air might affect our loved ones. We need to watch for signs of depression, loneliness, and irritability. We need to understand that something has yet again, been taken away. Seniors face so many losses as the years go by: spouses die, friends move away to go to nursing homes, and their own health declines. So, it should come as no surprise that something like a favorite TV show can impact life in a big way. We all need things to look forward to each and every day. And, for many seniors, the highlight of their day might very well be a favorite TV show. And, if that’s gone, it is our job to be perceptive to this and help in any way possible.
Unfortunately, if we live far away or work during the day, it can be difficult to be there for our loved ones as much as we’d like. At these times, it can be beneficial to retain the services of a company like Comfort Keepers. We offer a wide range of services designed to keep seniors safer, happier and more comfortable in their own homes. Perhaps they need more help around the house and some comforting companionship. Comfort Keepers can help. Perhaps they could benefit from having someone there to cook for them and to eat with them, or to play a favorite card or board game. Comfort Keepers can help. Or maybe it’s just having someone accompany them to doctor’s visits or to the grocery store. Comfort Keepers can help. Our caregivers can be there from as few as 3 hours a week to 24-hour care. Also, ask us about our respite services.
My own mom worked hard her entire life, and when she retired, she finally had the luxury to watch “the soaps.” She got “hooked”, as she says, on two shows and she has been watching them faithfully ever since, for over 25 years now. The characters on the shows are like friends and family members to her. Sometimes, she’ll mention something about a beautiful dress that Blair wore, or what terrible thing happened to Nora that week, and I’ll have to stop and search my mind. Who, exactly, is she talking about? I don’t remember a friend named Nora, or a neighbor named Blair. Then I laugh to myself and realize that my mom is talking about characters on “her shows”. They are important in her life and help brighten each day for her. I used to tease her about it, but I’ve learned to understand the importance of this in her life. And, because these shows are due to end in several months, I’m going to be very attuned to how my mom feels and make sure that her days are good in spite of her losing some of her best friends.
For more information about senior wellness and how we can help your family, please call us at 928-855-0005 or visit us at www.comfortkeepers.com/lakehavasucity-az today. Comfort Keepers provides services in Lake Havasu City, AZ, Bullhead City, AZ, Kingman, AZ and surrounding areas.
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