This month tips for seniors living alone focuses on communication, keeping up with friends and staying active.
- Plan social engagements, friendship outings and write them on a large spaced calendar. If you are at ease with your mobile phone, add them to the phone calendar
- Keep moving, don’t give up. One half hour a day of walking or gentle exercise is all it takes. Join a walking group, Pilates studio, aqua exercise class or similar if you are still reasonably fit and able.
- Consider a pet if you are able to care for one. A cat or dog can provide companionship, joy and lower stress levels
Play some of your favourite card games with friends and neighbours or join a friendship group. - Use mobility aids for moving around the house and to help prevent falls when out and about.
- Become involved with a Digital Seniors group if available. There is one at Paraparaumu Library on Thursdays from 10 am to noon if anyone lives in that area. There, one-to-one, you can learn how to use a computer, tablet, or cell phone or, if you are reasonably proficient, then to fathom some of the less familiar tasks or options available. A good way to meet others too.
- Prevent scams. Be cautious about offers or requests for personal information over the phone or online. Do not accept a caller’s offer of a phone number to call them back especially if they say it is your bank, or a store. Check the official website for a number and call to check if you might be a scam target. Never part with passwords over the phone.
