Aging brings about new challenges related to health, finances, and life changes that can cause stress to build in older adults. You can help your aging loved one make the most of the golden years by sharing these stress management tips.
1. Go for a Walk
Taking a walk is one of the best ways for seniors to relieve stress. It costs nothing and can be done outside or in a mall where the temperature is always comfortable. Walking is a cardiovascular activity that has been proven to reduce stress while increasing attention and memory. Endorphins released during exercise also boost mood.
Seniors sometimes need help performing daily exercise routines. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of in-home care. Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
2. Meditate
Completely eliminating stress from life is probably not realistic for most people, but reducing stress levels can be accomplished by practicing meditation, which is simple and easy to do. Seniors can begin by sitting in a comfortable position and taking deep breaths. Regular meditation can lower high blood pressure, boost the immune system, and decrease tension.
3. Socialize
There’s a direct correlation between an active social life and stress management. For each hour spent socializing, the happiness level increases and holds steady throughout the day. Older adults need to spend time with family or friends for a few hours each day to really see the benefits. Joining a club or stopping by the local senior center is a great way to stay connected.
For families living in Philadelphia, respite care can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At Home Care Assistance, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home.
4. Read
Reading is a tried-and-true way for seniors to relieve the stress in their lives. It’s a practice that provides an escape from the stress of life without ever leaving home. Studies show reading reduces the heart rate and releases tension in the muscles. Reading at least 30 minutes a day or even listening to audiobooks can significantly reduce stress.
Not every senior has the same care needs, which means they don’t all need the same type of home care service. Philadelphia families can rely on Home Care Assistance to provide individualized care plans to meet their elderly loved ones’ unique care needs. Our holistic Balanced Care Method was designed to help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and our Cognitive Therapeutics Method offers mentally stimulating activities that can stave off cognitive decline and delay the onset of dementia. Call one of our friendly Care Managers at (215) 645-4663 to schedule a free consultation.