Staying active and challenging the brain are a few vital ways to boost mental health later in life. But for seniors, adjusting to a new season of life, and the isolation associated with the recent COVID-19 can be difficult. Addressing mental health issues in seniors is important because many are also handling chronic conditions.
If left untreated, seniors battling with mental health issues can have an increased risk of neglecting medication regimes, reducing physical activity, and failing to keep doctor’s appointments. The key to easing the aging process for seniors is continued engagement, both mentally and physically.
We at GMG Home care have listed some points that one can consider:
1. Consuming a Healthy Balanced Diet
Research has shown that there is a link between healthy eating and the preservation of cognitive function or decreased risk of dementia. A healthy diet is generally one that encompasses staples like vegetables and fruits, fish and poultry, whole grains, meat, and low-fat dairy products. Research has indicated that making lifestyle changes by exercising and maintaining a healthy diet can work to keep mental issues at bay, way better than medication.
2. Keeping Stress Under Control
Stress can cause havoc on both the mind and the body, especially as we age. Though it is not always easy to let go of fears, worries, or responsibilities, it is crucial to make time each day to relax and reflect. Whether exercise, meditation, spending time with a pet, or treating yourself to a spa treatment makes you feel at ease, taking active steps to decrease stress will help ward off mental issues and other health concerns such as anxiety or nervousness.
3. Engaging in Physical Activity
Undertaking physical activity for 30 minutes, 3 to 5 times a week, whether it’s gardening, walking, or swimming, improves the mood and reduces anxiety by releasing feel-good endorphins. Seniors must always consult with a physician before starting a physical activity. Exercise has proven to have a positive effect on the brain. For seniors, easy exercises such as walks, yoga, or dancing can help ward off common illnesses connected with mental health.
4. Seeking Social Interaction
At any age, many people find joy in spending time with family and friends. Social isolation, especially right now during Covid-19, can be a problem for seniors that have mobility issues or aren’t able to drive, or who have loved ones that live far away. However, there are services that can help overcome these issues, like us at GMG, including transportation help, and in-home care assistance, and other outside sources of help. Social interactions provide a chance to stimulate conversations that keep the brain healthy and active.
5. Learning new things
Learning a new skill can help improve cognitive functioning and, in the process, keep the brain stronger as one age. For example, learning to play a new instrument stimulates the brain to ensure it stays active for long. Seeking out a new hobby can help seniors discover new interests they may not have considered and shine a light on diverse areas of enjoyment that will also keep them mentally healthy and fit. Keeping the mind busy can significantly boost senior’s mental health and decrease the risk of dementia by sharpening the brain, improving reasoning, and speeding up information processing. Engaging in games with others can also busy the brain and also encourage socialization.
6. Volunteering
Sharing time and talents doing volunteer work can bring a sense of fulfillment, keeping mental issues at bay. Many organizations have volunteer opportunities specially curated for seniors. People who volunteer experience lower levels of depression and increased life satisfaction.
Protecting senior mental health must be a priority, as it is the gate pass to ensuring emotional, physical, and psychological well-being. The abovementioned tips can help lay a foundation to improve senior mental health.
At GMG home care, our goal is to offer uplifting in-home care that benefits seniors and their family members. The specialized care plans we create for our clients consider physical goals as well as non-physical mental health needs. Our caregivers offer companionship and help families stay connected through technology.
We strive to elevate the human spirit through compassionate and joyful care.
