As much as we would love to deny it, aging is an inevitable part of anyone’s life. Aging impacts both the physical and mental health of an individual. With increasing age, it is common to develop a fear of being excluded or ignored by the younger generations. This is one of the major reasons why senior relatives feel a major need to be loved and respected by these same individuals, because it offers them a sense of inclusiveness and fulfillment as they inch toward the latter years of their lives with a positive mindset. Even a small, healthy change can result in a substantially positive impact on their lives. Here are a few ideas on what we can do to help them bring that positivity from within and feel better about themselves.

Time to Explore

Getting them to take up a hobby or activity is a great way to start. To feel the excitement of doing something new once again can help reinvigorate a monotonous schedule. It is also a good way to keep them sharp and mentally active. Identifying hobbies and taking them up as regular activities have been shown to significantly reduce the chances of depression and issues linked to self-worth. It could be a long-lost interest from their childhood or something that they have always wanted to try but haven’t had the chance.

Fitness is Key

Physical activity, to whatever extent, is a must. It improves blood circulation, boosts the immune system, and provides a much-needed balance between mind and body. Exercise is the key to getting a good quality of sleep and ensuring cardiac health, and there are many ways to keep up an individual’s fitness levels. Activities like walking, riding a bicycle, swimming, aerobics, and more can boost your overall stamina and make you look and feel younger.

Join a Club

This is a practice that has become increasingly popular in recent years. There are many options available and it is important to find the ones at your disposal in your community. It gives them a sense of relevance in meeting new people and making friends while sharing common interests. With weekly or bi-weekly meetings, it gives them something to look forward to in an otherwise monotonous lifestyle. A few popular clubs you may want to consider are book clubs, fitness clubs, and gardening clubs.

A Sense of Inclusiveness

Everyone likes to feel included and involved in one way or another. It is essential that seniors feel included to avoid feelings of isolation and despair. Asking senior relatives for opinions and help with decisions and simple tasks around the house can make a significantly positive impact. They may not do it perfectly but the fact that they are contributing to the house chores puts them in a positive frame of mind. You could ask them for help with maintaining your plants, reminding you about a particular bill payment, preparing grocery lists, and more.

Self-Satisfaction

Elders and senior citizens should be encouraged to keep themselves occupied, especially when family members or friends are not around. Writing is a powerful way of expressing what you feel and significantly improves your communication skills as well. It enhances creativity and keeps seniors mentally active. Another very effective way is to get them a pet to tend to. It provides them with a sense of nurturing and keeps them engaged in daily life.

At Dellwood Gardens Assisted Living in St. Paul, MN, your loved one will be embraced in a community where they receive the care and compassion they deserve. Our wide range of senior care options and beautiful assisted living apartments allow your loved one to age well in a comfortable, safe environment. To request more information or schedule a tour, please contact our Director of Marketing & Hospitality, Lindsay Schmidt, at lschmidt@dellwoodgardens.com or 651-444-5716.