Nearly 120,000 people in the U.S. are currently on an organ recipient list, which means anyone who becomes an organ donor is potentially making it easier for these people to get the help they need. Though some people might believe only younger adults can donate organs, it’s actually possible for adults of any age, including seniors. Here are four reasons your senior loved one should consider becoming an organ donor.
1. Save Lives
Saving another person’s life is one of the top reasons seniors donate their organs. As long as the doctor has approved the donation, your loved one may want to consider making the sacrifice. Your loved one could save someone going through a difficult health crisis and actually help the person get on the road to recovery. Knowing he or she saved a life could make your loved one feel great and reassure him or her that there are kind people in this world who may also do the same, which could benefit your loved one’s life should he or she ever need an organ donation.
2. Relieve Stress
Your loved one can feel more relaxed after deciding to become an organ donor, which could lead to endorphins being released into the body to relieve stress. Helping another person could make your loved one happier and able to maintain good spirits, ultimately reducing his or her anxiety levels and preventing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them attain this goal. Families can trust homecare services experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living longer and healthier lives.
3. Increase Socialization
Although they’re not mandatory to join, there are various donor communities where living donors interact with one another in person or via the internet. These groups allow senior organ donors to interact with other donors of all ages. The purpose of these communities is to give donors a place to vent, socialize, and ask questions, and they’re a great way for seniors to increase their social networks and prevent isolation, which could lead to strokes, obesity, heart attack, or other serious health concerns.
For families living in Richmond, respite care can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At Home Care Assistance, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home.
4. Boost Brain Function
A sense of purpose fosters a positive mental state in seniors. Donating an organ is a positive act that could make your loved one feel as if he or she has a true purpose in life. This type of emotion has the potential to boost brain function and prevent memory loss.
Maintaining a sense of purpose is just one of the many ways older adults can lead healthy lives. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional at-home care. Richmond, VA, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life. If you need compassionate professional care for your loved one, call one of our friendly Care Managers today at (804) 207-4746.