National Hugging Day is a fairly new holiday but one that was long overdue. Originating in 1986 from a local pastor, National Hugging Day’s purpose is to encourage friends and family to make more time for hugs. The creator placed it near the end of January, knowing that winter months are often tough on many people, and an extra hug here and there can help someone get through those toughest of emotions.
Health Benefits of Hugs
The founder of National Hugging Day wasn’t the only person to understand the health benefits of hugs. Scientists have long known that the benefits of hugs go beyond those brief moments of being wrapped in a warm embrace.
Here are just a few health benefits that hugging can have on your elderly loved one.
- Hugs improve heart health. A comforting hug from a caring individual can slow down a racing heart and reduce blood pressure levels, both of which can have a positive impact on heart health.
- Hugs reduce feelings of isolation. A hug can be a quick and easy reminder to your loved one that she’s not alone in whatever she is going through.
- Hugs decrease stress for both the hugger and the huggee. Hugging allows others to show they care without words and allows the person giving the hug to feel better about helping someone and helps the person being hugged feel better about having care bestowed upon them.
- Hugs stir up feelings of happiness. When hugging, most people feel an increase in oxytocin, a chemical that rises when feelings of comfort and joy are felt.
- Hugging can decrease pain. The act of hugging may reduce or eliminate pain.
- Hugs create a human connection. Many elderly people feel disconnected from the world around them. A hug can remind them of their importance in this world.
Some Tips on Hug Etiquette with Elderly Individuals
While the power of hugs is beneficial for many elderly people, hugging is personal and should never be forced upon someone. Forcing a hug may actually take away all of the health benefits listed above.
- Always ask if it’s okay to give a hug. If the answer is no, respect it and move on.
- Keep it brief but make it real. A weak hug is like a limp handshake.
- Remember any physical limitations your loved one may have and don’t cause pain by hugging injured areas.
- Think of the emotions behind the hug as you hug. It’ll transfer those positive emotions more strongly.
- Be prepared to keep hugging for as long as your loved one needs or to break away quickly if they pull away.
- Do not hug if you are feeling under the weather.
A hug can come from anyone. It can be a greeting from a home care provider when they arrive, a hug of comfort from a family member, or a hug from a long friend. If your loved one home homebound, consider talking to your home care worker to see if she is comfortable hugging your loved one when she arrives. A home care provider hug can be a great way to boost your loved one’s day and enjoy her time with her home care provider.
If you or a senior loved one are considering home care in Cranford, NJ or surrounding areas, please call our friendly staff at 908-590-1759.
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