hugs matter!

The healing power of touch. It's a scientific fact that affirming physical touch can have a powerful impact on the life of another human being. Whether it's the bonding influence of a newborn being cradled by it's mother, or a grown daughter holding the hand of her aged mother struggling with anxiety, physical touch has been proven to be a significant factor in positive physical health and mental well being.

Many seniors in the golden years of their life may be facing their future alone. Their spouse of decades could have preceded them in death. For most of us, it's hard to imagine what it's like to have been married to the same person for 50, 60, 70 or more years. But for many of our elders from the Greatest Generation, that was and is the norm. Suddenly though, death separates that lifetime relationship, and the loneliness can be devastating. The incredible power of a hug, holding their hand or just sitting close to them to talk can fill a void created by the loss of their partner.

Life is so hectic that for many families on the run they find it difficult to make the time to go visit their elderly parents and grandparents. Ball games, school events, work commitments and other schedule conflicts overwhelm the otherwise well meaning family members. Involuntary isolation for seniors happens, even if they happen to live in an assisted living facility or retirement community. What can break they chains of loneliness is simple pat on the back, touch of the hand or hug around the neck. It may very well be the only physical contact that senior receives the entire week!

You have the ability to make a huge difference in the lives of those seniors whose paths you cross this week! Show them your heart by reaching out and being affectionate where it is appropriate! If you have an elderly family member that lives some distance from you, and you feel it would be beneficial for them to have greater interaction with someone on a regular basis, maybe you should consider hiring one of the member agencies of the OPHC!  Just click "About Us" at the top of the web page, and then select "Membership Directory" to see a listing of our incredible member agencies! Check them out and see if there is an agency close to you that could provide staff to provide someone to meet your needs!

Page Cole
Visiting Angels of Tulsa
Visiting Angels of Bartlesville
Visiting Angels of SWOKC

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