By Kristin Glasure, FAIRHOPE president and CEO
A holistic approach to mental health and physical wellness can mean an improved quality of life for older adults. When practicing self-care that leads to positive aging, it is not only important to consider physical dimensions such as blood pressure and cholesterol levels, but it is also critical to consider the emotional, social, spiritual, and intellectual aspects.
With that in mind, here are eight ways older adults can maintain good spirits and a healthy lifestyle for their minds and body.
- Be physically active. Staying active is important for the mental and physical well-being of older adults. The National Institute on Aging offers a variety of resources about the benefits of exercise and physical activity. There are emotional benefits as well, including boosting mood, confidence, and feelings of independence. Low-impact exercises such as stretching and strength training are necessary to reduce the risk of common age-related concerns like bone fractures and joint pain. Exercise can also help with stress management, anxiety, and depression. Fitness classes, swimming, yoga classes, dancing and walking are all ways to keep older adults engaged in activities that have wellness benefits.
- Be mentally active. Stimulating the brain helps minds stay engaged and avoid cognitive decline. Hobbies and games can help sharpen thinking skills like processing speed, decision-making, reaction time and memory. Activities such as reading, journaling, learning a new language, playing an instrument, puzzles, sewing, cooking, gardening, crafting, painting, and drawing offer significant long-term benefits to aging adults.
- Eat sensibly. Making healthy nutritional choices with meals that are prepared with fresh ingredients can help prevent chronic disease. Additionally, engaging the senses in a mindful way creates a pleasurable dining experience that allows individuals to appreciate a meal more fully by eating slowly and savoring each bite.
- Listen to music. There are numerous emotional, physical, and mental benefits to listening to music, including reduced anxiety, improved sleep and boosted mood. Favorite melodies can bring back a fond memory and stimulate the mind, or even inspire someone to sing and dance.
- Practice spiritual wellness. Spirituality and faith provide a sense of purpose and meaning as well as connection to others. Practices such as prayer, meditation and quiet reflection can promote well-being and help find peace in challenging times.
- Nurture relationships. Staying connected to friends and family can ease feelings of loneliness and social isolation that may lead to depression or mental and physical decline. When in-person interaction is not feasible, social media platforms offer alternative options, or keep it simple with a telephone call or by exchanging letters.
- Volunteer. Plenty of worthy organizations and causes need support, providing a way for older adults to get involved while feeling valued and needed. Volunteering is a rewarding experience that offers a sense of purpose while enhancing physical, emotional, and mental health.
- Celebrate life. Celebrate both the big and little moments life gives you every day. Some days that might be a walk or watching a favorite show. On other days it’s birthdays, graduations, new babies, weddings and anniversaries. Life is full of major and minor events – don’t just celebrate the major ones or you’ll miss that there’s so much to celebrate.
- Interact with animals. Bonds between humans and pets can lower stress and increase happiness, offering companionship and unconditional love. For those who do not want to own a pet, volunteering at an animal shelter or visiting a zoo or sanctuary can provide a connection with animals.