Social and emotional connections
Social and emotional connections can have a range of benefits for our mental and physical health.
Generally we are social creatures, and need to feel loved and have a sense of belonging. There are lots of benefits to feeling socially and emotionally connected but it can be hard to connect with others when we feel overwhelmed with caring. Dr Gemima Fitzgerald, Clinical Psychologist, Dementia Carers Count
The benefits of social and emotional connections
Social and emotional connections can improve our quality of life and boost our mental health.
The importance of belonging
A sense of belonging to a group or community can help protect against depression and improve cognition in older people as well as improving physical health.
Ways to maintain and develop social connections
There are many ways to maintain and improve social connections:
Volunteer
Volunteering is a great way to meet new people. If you are able, consider volunteering for a few hours at a local charity, library or community garden.
Join a local club or group
There are a whole range of groups and clubs available for different interests, from specific dementia carer support groups, to more general groups such as choirs, walking, drama and book clubs.
Join an online club
If it’s not easy to get out of the house, perhaps join an online club. This is another way to meet people who may share similar interests.
Schedule weekly phone calls or video calls
If it’s it difficult to get together with a friend or family member in person, scheduling a time to catch up once a week can give you something to look forward to.
Keeping in touch with others can help you feel less isolated and cope better with whatever challenge you may be experiencing. If you need specialist advice, remember that we’re here to help. We can listen and help you get the support you need. Dr Gemima Fitzgerald, Clinical Psychologist, Dementia Carers Count
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Dementia carer support groups
Get the opportunity to talk with and listen to other carers, in our small, friendly dementia carer online peer support groups
Meaningful activity
Meaningful activity is important to help us all maintain a good quality of life, whether we are living with dementia or not.
Getting a good night’s sleep
Getting a good night’s sleep is good for all of us, but especially for family carers of people with dementia. Good sleeping patterns are essential for our physical and mental wellbeing.
