Get ready … the holidays are here! While there are many people who flourish on the hectic pace of celebrations and parties, there are an equal number of us who cringe at the idea of going outside of their comfort zone and into more intensive social obligations. It may simply boil down to one key distinction: introversion vs. extroversion. And it is essential to know which distinction the older adults in your life lean towards more, because extroverted and introverted seniors often have different social engagement needs. Golden Harmony’s caregivers in Raleigh, NC and the surrounding area can help you determine the right type of socialization to help the older adults you love thrive.
What Is the Difference Between Extroverts and Introverts?
The reality is none of us is totally one versus the other. Think of a continuum with introversion on one side and extroversion on the other. All of us fall somewhere along that continuum. The main traits of introversion include a more reserved, quiet, and internally-focused point of view, whereas extroversion consists of a more outward focus: talkative, sociable, and action-oriented.
It’s intriguing to know that psychologists believe we grow more introverted as we grow older, in a phenomenon identified as “intrinsic maturation.” So even if a senior you love once fully enjoyed and drew energy from highly-social settings, you may observe a transformation towards beginning to feel more self-contained and satisfied with small, intimate social scenes or even just being alone.
Realizing that socialization is crucial to a senior’s health and wellness, how can you help introverted seniors enjoy time together with friends and relatives, not only during the holiday season, but all year long? These recommendations can help:
- Settle into the perimeter. Instead of motivating the senior to be front and center in a social environment, pick a quieter spot at the edge of the group where they can chat with one or two people at a time.
- Assign a buddy. Having one close and trusted family member, friend, or caregiver to remain near the person adds an amount of comfort and familiarity to what may feel like an overpowering setting.
- Decide on a designated exit time. Talk with the individual about how much time may feel comfortable for visiting. If they would like to stay for just an hour, for example, be sure to honor that request and be prepared to leave when they are.
How Can In-Home Care Help?
A caregiver from Golden Harmony provides the perfect opportunity for the one-on-one socializing that more introverted seniors need. Just a few of the many ways we can help include:
- Attending holiday events with the senior to ensure all of their needs are met in the most comfortable setting.
- Providing companionship at home for conversations and activities that are enjoyable for the senior.
- Providing accompanied transportation to a small-group class or to learn a new hobby they’ve always wanted to try.
- And more.
Reach out to us at 919-426-7522 to learn more recommendations to help a senior you love enjoy the highest possible quality of life, and to find out how a professional caregiver in Raleigh, NC and the surrounding areas can help.