SENIOR LIVING
MICHELLE RAINER Director of Marketing & Sales The Delaney at South Shore
TIPS FOR TAKING CARE OF YOUR MENTAL HEALTH AS A SENIOR
Protecting our mental health and mental wellness is easier said than done . We tell ourselves to smile or find the good in life , but the truth is , some days can be hard .
The issue of senior mental health is in a category of its own . According to the Pan American Health Organization ( PAHO ) and the World Health Organization ( WHO ), at least one in four older adults experiences a mental disorder , with depression being the most common issue . People aged 85 and older also have the highest suicide rate of any age group .
As we get older , fears may creep in if we must navigate any of the following :
• Depression and / or anxiety from isolation
• Mobility issues
• Disrupted daily routine
• Lack of regular exercise
• Dietary changes To protect our overall health , it ’ s important to maintain positive mental health as we age . There is so much for seniors to experience . With a little help , you may find that your mental wellness can be better than ever .
Our Mental Health Tips for Seniors
1 . Take Part in Social Activities Senior living communities are built on the foundation of social activity among residents . Seniors can stay active with aerobics , swimming , or walks with friends . Engaging socially is also often done through crafts or playing games . Social relationships can help our mental wellness and reduce the fear of social isolation , while also improving physical and emotional health .
2 . Keep a Proper Sleep Schedule A lack of quality sleep for older adults can reduce the quality of life for people over 65 . Studies suggest that poor sleep for seniors can relate to poor mental wellness , with hospitalizations , higher mortality rates , and more . There is a myth that we need less sleep as we get older . The National Sleep Foundation debunks that myth and advises seniors to receive between
seven and eight hours of sleep each night .
3 . Consult with Medical Professionals Maintaining positive mental health is a struggle for many people . All seniors are encouraged to take the time to address mental wellness challenges – there is no shame in seeking help . Seniors often benefit from mental health counseling where they can discuss their concerns with a medical professional . Stress can degrade mental health and lead to high blood pressure . Mood changes can also hurt your mental health , as can a lack of cognitive function . Receiving treatment is sometimes necessary and a medical consultation will help you determine an actionable plan if you experience any warning signs .
4 . Spend Time with Loved Ones Family support is a critical component to the psychological impact of aging . Elderly mental health support is built on connections with family members , good friends , and other loved ones . For example , a study from the Gerontological Society of America found that there is a strong mental health benefit between grandparents spending time with grandchildren . In this case , greater affinity or an emotional closeness reduced depressive symptoms for both parties . Similar studies between grandparents and younger grandchildren have been found to also lower depression risks for seniors .
5 . Continue to Do What You Love As our bodies age , we may not always be able to take part in the same activities we enjoyed earlier in life . However , there are often alternatives for seniors . Were you extremely athletic as a younger adult ? Perhaps you took part in cultural events and inspired the world . You can still be a part of those activities as a fan , coach , contributor , and supporter . Seniors are encouraged to follow their passions and continue to expand upon what they love .
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