Human Contact a Necessity For Life As a Single Senior
by MARTHA OWEN AND SUSAN GUY
Touch is a very powerful com- municator, so it’s no surprise that it is missed the most in one’s personal life since being widowed. Physical touch is one of The Five Love Languages Dr. Gary Chapman has identified in his book by the same name. Many people find that physical touch makes them feel valued, Chapman says. But touch doesn’t always need
to be related to romance. There are many ways one can feel fulfilled in the absence of a relationship with a mate. Why not pamper yourself on a regular basis? Many women enjoyed frequent — even weekly — visits to the hair salon. There’s nothing like having your scalp massaged and shampooed or having your hair trimmed or styled to brighten the day. Consider ball- room dancing as an activity which might also provide the desired physi- cal contact.
Have other services at a salon been tried, which also can allow for the experience of touch? Manicures, pedicures and massages are also relaxing and enjoyable.
Physical contact is important for people of all generations. MARTHA OWEN & SUSAN GUY,
Contributing Writers. COMMENTS? 484-6200 ext. 222 or editor@upandcomingweekly.com
Contact with friends can also go a long way toward helping to fill the void of a spouse’s absence. Why not get involved with a church, community or volunteer organization in your town? Call the local senior center or Area Agency on Aging for ideas about what you can do. Many people subconsciously disconnect from oth- ers during the grieving process. If that’s what has happened, it may be time to reconnect. Cultivate a friendship with a neighbor or go through your ad- dress book to find a friend or relative with whom you’ve lost contact. There is great comfort in a hug from a friend or
relative, but out of respect, often hugs are not offered as much as desired. There is a bible scripture that says, “ Ask and ye shall receive.” Rarely would a request for a hug go unanswered, if the senior would be willing to speak up and make the request. By reaching out, one will find others who may be looking for the same type of human contact that is missing.
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