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~ Angela Kambarian
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) , it is estimated that over 20% of seniors experience some type of mental health concern. Most people realize that common mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, can impact physical health and wellness. In fact, these conditions can potentially result in impairments in physical, mental, and social functioning, or even complicate the treatment of other chronic conditions.
Although aging can put some people at a higher risk for developing mental health conditions, many senior mental health issues are treatable. In addition to prescribed medications or therapy, there are a wide range of activities, opportunities, and resources available to help older adults, elevate their spirits, and attain a more optimistic outlook on life.
You don’t have to be a teenager to have an active social life. It goes without saying that having friends, spending time with interesting or like-minded individuals, and maintaining a strong bond with your family members, can go a long way towards averting mental and physical issues. Furthermore, social support can boost your spirits, stave off loneliness, and create a sense of belonging. After all, what can be better than enjoying quality time with people who care, while discovering new ways to live a full life?
So, if you are determined to make every day count, make it a point to expand your social circle and see your mental and physical well-being improve, along with your lifestyle and outlook on life. Each time you feel down, grab a cup of tea with a friend, talk things out, or laugh all your worries away, and hopefully see the light at the end of the tunnel.
We all have heard uplifting stories about some 80-year-olds flying a parachute or participating in a dance competition. While you don’t have to go THAT far to maintain your vitality, knowing that you have the capacity to stay robust at any age, may inspire you to embrace fitness and become more active. You can even team up with a friend or a family member, go for a run together, and turn your exercise routine into an adventure. Just make sure you consult your physician and do not go overboard with your fitness routine. As you may already know, anything worth doing is worth doing right. Your fitness habits are no exception. By the way, according to the Mental Health Commission of Canada, playing with your grandchild or a pet, gardening, or even doing household chores, qualifies as a physical exercise and can impact your mental state.
When it comes to fueling your mind or getting creative, the options for seniors abound. As we pointed out above, our bodies need physical activity, regardless of how old we are. The same applies to our mind. As suggested by Harvard Health Publishing, there is a wide array of mind games that can help older adults enhance and sharpen their intellect, and, as a result, boost their mood. In fact, any activity that keeps the mind engaged or urges us to solve problems, overcome new challenges, or develop a fresh perspective on things, contributes to brain health and improved wellbeing.
So, what can older adults do to increase their brainpower and rejuvenate their creative spirit? From reading to learning a new language, to playing an instrument or playing scrabble, these are just some of the activities that can keep you mentally occupied and emotionally happy. Don’t forget about crossword puzzles and chess, not to mention computer games, board games, or card games.
Studies show that acquiring new skills can not only sharpen seniors’ brains, but also improve memory and boost self-esteem. That’s good enough reason to include the above activities into your life and have fun while improving your mental wellbeing.
Most people would probably agree that the benefits of nature are undeniable. Beautiful parks, trees, lakes, and flowers can serve as incredible mood boosters and provide the peace of mind seniors may need in today’s hectic world.
Just walking around, enjoying the breathtaking views, appreciating the beauty of a landscape, and taking pictures, can be therapeutic, relax your mind, and renew your energy. Besides, walking in nature boosts creativity and may enable you to come up with new ways to enhance the quality of your life.
See the splendor of The Osborn's 56-acre arboretum campus virtually or in person. Learn more about the amenities and life enriching activities available to residents.
The information in the above article is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.