Living alone with adrenal insufficiency
Living alone presents many challenges for adrenal insufficient seniors and singles. Isolation can be a major challenge when you have limited energy. We’ve put together some ideas to help you connect with others, both in person and online.
Community based resources
Offer opportunities for social interactions with like-minded folks:
1. Seniors Centres; these are often sponsored by local civic governments, and offer a variety of programs, such as gentle exercise, crafts, games, speakers, outings, etc. Many offer transportation services.
2. Community Recreation Centres have regular events. During the summer activities in the park can be a good excuse to sit and people watch or make new friends.
3. Libraries; many programs run during the day are attended by retired people or folks who are unable to work for a variety of reasons.
4. Arts Organizations and Guilds; these can be a source for making new friends and developing new interests; many are happy to accept “beginners” as new members.
5. Education Institutions; Universities and Colleges offer a variety of courses that can be attended in person or enjoyed online; some have discounted fees, or are offered free to seniors. Informal classes can be a great way for single people to meet others with the same interests.
6. Faith-based groups; churches have social events, study groups, and other ways to connect through mutual beliefs.
National Organizations
Organizations such as AARP (U.S.) and CARP (Canadian) offer a variety of services and information for retired folks, with links to regional branches.
http://www.aarp.org/?intcmp=GLBNAV-PL-HOME-HOME
http://www.carp.ca/
https://www.seniorcare.com/…/helpful-organizations-that-su…/
Senior Companions
Senior Companions are volunteers age 55 and over who make a difference by providing assistance and friendship to adults who have difficulty with daily living tasks, such as shopping or paying bills. The volunteers are over 55, you can be any age to get assistance. They help adults remain independent in their homes instead of having to move to more costly institutional care. Senior Companions give families or professional caregivers a much needed time off from their duties, run errands, and often provide friendship for their clients.
Support groups focused on particular health issues
1. Online support groups offer a place to share your victories and struggles in a non-judgmental atmosphere. There’s a wide variety of them for AI, each with their own unique style. Many of us have coexisting conditions. Searching FB for those conditions can open up new avenues of support.
2. National/provincial/state organizations that advocate for patients; such as the Canadian Addison’s Society, the US based National Adrenal Disease Foundation, the UK Addison’s Disease Self Help Group, and the Australian Adrenal Insufficiency Down Under FB page often have information on support groups in your area. Alternatively, they may help you set one up.
3. Doctors’ Offices often post notices and brochures advertising local health based support.
4. Local health jurisdictions; some hospitals run support groups for various health issues. These suggestions are meant to jump start your imagination. In any size community there are opportunities to connect with others in some way. Even small interactions can help ease feelings of isolation and improve your quality of life. For example, a trip to the grocery store can become a social event by saying hello to other shoppers, the person ringing up your order, and the one carrying it to the car for you. Your friendly greeting may be just what they need.