Nowadays, more and more people suffer from mental health problems. Some studies show that one out of five American adults experiences mental health issues each year. The elderly haven’t been spared either. There are various mental health problems among older persons, including dementia, isolation, anxiety disorders, and psychosis.
Is this a reason to worry? Not really! There are numerous ways to help your elderly loved ones improve their mental health. According to information on Caregiverlist, one of the best ways to do this is by using an assisted living activity calendar; as a caregiver, it will allow you to plan daily activities and notify others with ease. Also, it allows you to generate data reports that you can refer to at any time. It will help plan daily to day activities and notify others of the daily activities with ease. It will also assist you in generating data reports that you can refer to anytime.
How can you help your older person improve their mental health?
1. Take up a new hobby.
Hobbies benefit the elderly in many ways. They provide new skills and are also an excellent way of exercising. For instance, learning to play new games like tennis and golf will help improve your overall health and alleviate stress. Ask your loved one what they enjoy doing. Consider things like coloring books for adults or crossword and acquire a few for your senior person. They will likely enjoy engaging in the new activity.
2. Share self-help anxiety tools
Most people use self-help tools to manage stress and anxiety. They range from yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises. Older persons may not be familiar with these, but they can still come in handy. There are also additional online tools that you can help manage your stress levels. These include;
· Information
There are various sites like the mayoclinic.com that offers an excellent overview of stress, the causes, and the physical and psychological reactions to stress. From these sites, you can also get information on common questions related to stress and anxiety.
· Quizzes
Some online sites give insight into your stress symptoms. They also test your knowledge of ailments related to stress and anxiety.
· Relaxation techniques
Search YouTube for guidance on meditation techniques. All vary in length and focus but can be very useful. All these can help you learn breathing exercises, muscle relaxation, and guided relaxation meditation.
3. Encourage physical activities
Physical activities will support your physical and mental health. Participating in simple physical activities can make a big difference in your lifestyle. Although exercising may not be easy, simple things like brisk walks, jogging, and swimming will leave you reinvigorated. They will also help relieve stress, hence improve your mental health.
4. Discuss the fun and distractive things
Older persons are susceptible to various ailments, and your loved one may suffer from one or two. When you make calls to check on them, avoid focusing so much on their infections. Some light distractions work excellently, and seniors are no exception. If not sure of what to discuss, consider news storylines and weird things the kids have been trying at home.
5. Play mind games
Your brain needs stimulation to stay healthy. Luckily, the list of pursuits that you can partake in to keep your mind engaged is endless. Activities that involve solving problems can boost your brain health. These include;
Reading and writing– Reading helps alleviate stress and anxiety and their effects. Learning a new language also works. It helps exercise parts of the brain affected by aging.
Playing games and puzzles– These challenge your brain and have numerous cognitive benefits.
The bottom line
As we grow older, our mental health tends to deteriorate. It’s essential to engage in activities that help you keep fit and sharpen your mind. Consider the ideas mentioned above, and talk to your doctor about any other things you can do to help your loved maintain optimal mental health.
