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Waterloo Chronicle | Thursday, June 22, 2023 | 12 waterloochronicle.ca By Liz Bruckner There's no denying that social isolation has a number of detrimental impacts on the psycho- logical and cognitive health of seniors. Research shows that one in four seniors in Canada live with amental health problem or illness such as anxiety, depression or dementia, and 10 to 15 per cent of those who are over age 65 and living in the com- munity are currently suffering from depression. while the COVID-19 pandemic exacer- bated feelings of depression and anxiety amongst many seniors - in some cases, lockdowns acceler- ated mental health disorders and caused sufferers to require professional psychological or physical care — research from the US. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that even before the arrival of the pandemic, older adults were at a uch higher risk ye social isolation and loneliness than younger age groups. “Seniors, like the rest of the general popu- lace, are hardwired for social connection to help. keep them feeling mentally, physically, socially and spiritually well’ says Nancy Brownsberger, a certi- fied trauma therapist and registered social service worker who's based in Haliburton, Ont. “Our ner- with a charitable estate donation in your will. Your support provides amputees, TavellUeliaemelali(elc-laPmuV ivan darcy essential artificial limbs they need to thrive. The War Amps estatedonation@waramps.ca waramps.ca + 1 800 465-2677 Charitable Registration N 13196 9628 RROOO1 Staying engaged — mental wellness for seniors vous systems are designed to be at their optimal functioning level when we are in connection with ourselves and others. Being deprived of these con- nections can cause several mental health effects, including an increase in anxiety, depression, health anxiety, addiction and isolation, which | see clini- cally on a regular basis.” So, what steps can seniors take to benefit their social c and activity me Simultaneously rotting vibe mental well-bein: , Brownsberger ee ends being proactive about arranging and attending gather- ings with like-minded people to open the door to connection. “Often, in my private client work and in my past social recreation community role for seniors in my community, simply meeting with others of like mind/interests helped us regulate our emotional reactivity and remind our nervous. systems that we are safe, seen and connected’ she says. 2. Take time to interact with others - whether at a bingo hall, community gathering, card club, or even for tea in the meeting room of a condo or apartment building. This not only helps to foster a sense of community, but research shows that these interactions also help protect the brain from cognitive decline. 3. Make an effort to regularly stay in touch with those who make you feel seen, safe, soothed and secure, Brownsberger says. And while in-person connections are beneficial for a variety of reasons, talking on the phone, via text, over email or through video calls are also great options for staying en 4. Do you have interests that ou love? Spend some time researching groups or activities either online or in your community where you can par ticipate. And if you can convince a friend or family member to join you, even better! 5. If you're looking for connection but feel shy or hesitant to venture out into unfamiliar terri- tory, go online and try video conferencing or social med platforms asa way to stay socially active. privacy and safety components are in place, she as) 6, Take advantage of connection services like A Friendly Voice (afriendlyvoice.ca), a confidential phone line designed for Ontarians ages 55 and , which can provide a great way io seniors to eschew the effects of loneliness. 7. Tiptoe out of your comfort zone and try to get out to just one event that you might be inter- ested in, Brownsberger says." recommend making a plan ahead of time to do so gently. For example, go with a friend but plan on being there for a certain amount of time - and if you choose to stay longer, that’s great, too! Let your loved ones know where you're going before you head out, and invite them along if it fits” And remember: If your first few attempts at reimmersing yourself into social events feels awk- ward, keep at it, she says. “It helps to know that it can feel uncomfortable for many people, so youre not alone. We all tend to feel a little shy at first. connect socially, enjoy a good conversation, and Don't give up!" ADVERTORIAL YOUNG BOY IS A WAR AMPS “CHAMP” Eight-year-old Abel Walker was born missing the lower part of his left arm. Abel, a member of The War Amps Child Amputee (CHAMP) Program, receives financial assistance for artificial limbs and devices and also attends regional 4 seminars where Champs and their parents learn about the latest in artificial limbs, dealing with teasing and staring, and parenting an amputee child. His parents Cortney and Ryan describe how The War Amps ; has supported their family. “We enrolled Abel in the CHAMP Program and attended 7 our first seminar when he was only a few weeks old. The support and strength of the CHAMP community was undeniable and truly heartwarming. We knew after that first seminar that everything was going to be OK,” say Cortney and Ryan. “As he has grown up, being a part of CHAMP has helped him feel secure in himself and his abilities. His Es prosthetic arm and device that The War Amps tuned allows Pros telat ane rg Ci ngs (HA Pagan him to do everyday tasks as well as play sports. For us, knowing that CHAMP will pay for the artificial limbs that he needs means fewer worries and ‘nat ‘Abel can enjoy the same activities as other children. The Association encourages Champs to develop a positive attitude towards their amputation and try whatever activity they set their mind to. “Abel's determination and zest for life is an inspiration to all,” said Danita Chisholm, Executive Director, CHAMP Program. “Thanks to the public's support of The War Amps Key Tag Service, we are able to help young amputees like Abel reach their goals.” The War Amps receives no government grants; its programs are made possible through public support of the Key Tag and Address Label Service. For more information, or to order key tags, visit waramps.ca or call toll-free 1-800-250-3030.