Huis Hermon highlights importance of visiting elderly loved ones in Pretoria North
Loneliness remains a major hurdle for care home residents dealing with health and mobility challenges.
Families are being encouraged to make time for their elderly loved ones as Huis Hermon highlights the importance of companionship and social interaction.
The call coincided with International Day of Older Persons on October 1, which recognises the contribution older people have made to their families and communities.
”Older persons need to be celebrated for their contribution to their communities,” said Huis Hermon manager Lize Strauss.
The home marked the day by decorating its facilities in purple and blue, while residents received sweet snacks with their tea.
Overcoming loneliness
However, Strauss said loneliness remained a significant challenge for many older people, particularly those dealing with mobility, eyesight and health problems.
Strauss said busy family schedules could also mean residents did not receive visits as often as they would like.
”Social interaction of any kind is not only crucial for mental and physical health, but also impacts brain health. It gives meaning to their lives and makes them feel loved and cared for,” Strauss said.
Families can stay connected through regular visits, phone calls, care packages and taking loved ones out for coffee.
Early Christmas lunch planned
Huis Hermon also hosts family events throughout the year, with its next event, an early Christmas lunch, scheduled for November 29.
Strauss said the wider community could also help by donating toiletries and snacks, reading to residents with poor eyesight, or simply spending an afternoon chatting with them.
Schools and churches can also organise visits, plays and choir performances.
Huis Hermon offers morning craft activities and short-stay care for families who need a break from caregiving responsibilities.
For enquiries, contact 012 546 6688 or hermon@residentia.co.za.
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