3 Ways To Boost Mental Health In Seniors

Older generations grew up in a time when there was a stigma around mental health. It was common for people to not consider their mental well-being and reach out for help. However, taking care of your mental health is a vital part of aging. Seniors undergo many changes that can affect them both physically and mentally. Here are 3 ways your loved one can boost their mental health:

1. Take a nature break to boost mental health in seniors

The American Psychological Association provided an article on how research has linked nature to improved mental health and sharper cognition. Further studies have shown how being in the presence of nature or even looking at pictures of nature can reduce our stress and boost our memory and mood.

A common contributor to depression in seniors is isolation. Many seniors feel isolated and lonely because they’re living alone and cooped up in the house. Their mental state can benefit from getting outside and breathing in the fresh air.

You can make sure your loved one is in the presence of nature by taking them on easy walks, visiting a botanical garden, or driving through your favorite nature spots. If they can’t step outside, you can still bring nature to them! Add plants and bird feeders to your elderly parent’s home, so they can enjoy nature at all times.

2. Playing word games or puzzles

Playing games and doing brain-exercise activities such as scrabble and sudoku are beneficial to seniors for both entertainment and to keep their cognitive skills sharp! Whenever your loved one feels bored, bring out the games to keep them busy and energized. Make sure the games fit your loved one’s abilities, so they find the games enjoyable.

Staying intellectually sharp also has been proven to benefit our mental states. Since cognitive skills are more prone to decline with old age, your loved one can also exercise their brain by doing fun puzzles and other brain-stimulating games.

3. Learning a new hobby or revisiting an old one

If your loved one is retired and cooped up at home then it is the perfect time to do the hobbies they love! Having a hobby has been proven to benefit mental health. It offers that sense of purpose and fulfillment by giving you something to look forward to every day. Instead of wondering “what now” once they’ve hit retirement, older adults can find their passions and ambitions again by finding a hobby.

Some common relaxing activities and hobbies amongst seniors include painting, knitting, scrapbooking, gardening, and making home repairs. Your loved one can enjoy the rest of their life, knowing they are living their life to the fullest by trying all the things they used to never have time for.

Seniors can uplift their mental state by keeping busy and doing the things they love! Encourage them to get out of the house and try new things. Their golden years are the perfect time for them to prioritize themselves and enjoy life.

1+1 Cares is a referral agency that works for clients and caregivers. We match caregivers with clients and inform them of your requirements. We work for you so you and your loved one can have a safe, enjoyable caregiving experience. Get Care.