Giving or receiving a hug every day for 20 seconds can improve a person’s health, stimulate procedural memory and reduce stress1.
Cuddling increases the production of two hormones: oxytocin, which, among other things, is responsible for attachment, and dopamine, which enhances cognition and connection with the present moment2. Also, dopamine helps reduce cortisol, the hormone that fuels prolonged states of stress3. In other words, a cuddle promotes a sense of attachment and awareness of one’s surroundings, and reduces the chances of chronic stress in the body.
Combating stress and loneliness in seniors’ lives
It’s very beneficial for seniors in residential care to be able to experience the benefits of a cuddle on a frequent basis. Indeed, they often suffer from loneliness linked to their living environment and the lack of family presence, and then from stress, linked to the impression of disturbing or being unable to do things by themselves4.
While it’s unreal to expect a family member or friend to reach out to them on a daily basis to offer a hug, there are interesting alternatives that can have a big impact on their lifestyle:
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Bent Weighted sloth – 5 kg$369.95 -
Lise weighted Doll 2.7 kg$369.95 -
Cuddle Sensory Ball 25 cm$39.95 -
Anti-Stress Shoulder Wrap (with aromatherapy)$42.95 -
The Tender, Loving, Care Doll$98.95
BIBLIOGRAPHICAL SOURCES
1, 2, 3 Kunar, K (s.d.) How Do Hugs Make You Feel? https://www.medicinenet.com/how_do_hugs_make_you_feel/article.htm
4 Boudreault, A. & Ntetu, A. (2006). Toucher affectif et estime de soi des personnes âgées. Recherche en soins infirmiers, 86, 52-67. https://doi.org/10.3917/rsi.086.0052