While watching television should probably never be a main source of entertainment for anyone, there are times when someone may be watching more television than normal. For many seniors, that season can come with recovering from a major surgery or illness, losing the ability to physically move around as desired, inclement weather that keeps them indoors, or cognitive decline that makes it more difficult to engage in the world around them. Companion care at home providers have someone come to your home and provide companionship for your loved one.
If you find your elderly loved one at a point where watching television for entertainment or enrichment is their current reason, there are shows that you can guide them toward that will have some mental health benefits as they enjoy them.
Television Show Types That Promote Positive Viewing Experiences for Seniors
Familiar “Comfort” Shows. Watching a repeat of an old, familiar movie or TV series can produce feelings of calm, peace, and comfort. These can be great items for your senior to watch if they’re feeling anxious, lonely, or discouraged.
Educational Shows. Television doesn’t have to be all entertainment. There are plenty of shows out there that can help your loved one learn more about the world around them. From game shows such as Jeopardy!, to “How did they do that” shows, to documentaries, there are plenty of ways to keep your loved one learning.
Nostalgia Shows. Luckily, with all the streaming services available, you can find just about any movie or TV series from every generation. Your loved one may enjoy watching shows that were filmed during their childhood or early adult years and be able to comment and reflect upon how things have changed since those days.
Comedies. Laughter is a great medicine and can lift a person’s spirits. Finding shows that make your loved one laugh can be a great way to help them cope with a tough situation, such as receiving cancer treatment. Comedy is subjective, so take time to find what kind of comedy your loved one enjoys and then focus on that.
Favorite Genres. If your loved one enjoys watching mystery movies or watching a family saga series (such as “Little House on the Prairie”), these can also be a great way to help them have a positive viewing experience.
Television Show Types to Avoid
While watching TV or a movie can be a positive and relaxing activity, watching something on TV may have the opposite effect and cause feelings of anxiety, stress, or withdrawal.
Each person has different tolerance levels, but consider weeding out shows from your loved one’s watchlist if they contain:
- Violence – whether real or fictional
- Extremely emotional scenes such as death, loss, and boisterous arguments.
- Confusing content – too many plot twists or characters can confuse.
- Lots of negative world news – watching a lot of news about all of the struggles found around the world can lead to depression and anxiety.
Making Television Time More Healthy
The first step is always to limit it, even if your loved one is bedbound. Too much screen time of any type isn’t good. Next, when possible, having company while watching TV is a great way to discuss what is happening and connect with another person.
Companion care at home providers can spend part of their time watching your loved one’s favorite show alongside them, providing a connection even while watching TV.
If you or an aging loved one is considering Companion Care at Home Services in Brookhaven, GA, please get in touch with the caring staff at Senior Solutions Home Care. (404) 266-8773
Senior Solutions Home Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Atlanta, Palmetto, Alpharetta, Chattahoochee Hills, Milton, College Park, Sandy Springs, Roswell, Hapeville, Johns Creek, and all of Fulton County.
Over the years, we have expanded, providing service in all 95 counties throughout Tennessee, and we now have a growing presence in Georgia.
Senior Solutions is recognized as a top 5% independent agency and a three-time Inc. 5000 honoree in 2018, 2019, and 2020. These types of awards matter to us because they show growth in our goal of eventually touching a million lives. We’re excited to continue that growth and to touch even more families with our commitment to quality care!
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