The crux of quality of life for all ages is undeniably mental health. For the most part, we live in our heads, after all, so ensuring our internal landscape is free of debris and unnecessary friction will go a long way toward bolstering our quality of life in general.
By the time 2030 rolls around, 1 in 6 of us will be over the age of sixty, according to the WHO, so it’s important we take senior mental health seriously.
Fortunately, fostering good mental health isn’t as difficult as you might expect. Read on to find out some of the best and most effective ways to do just that!
1. Regular Physical Activity
Many of us dread the thought of physical activity. Memories of unpleasant times spent in gym class abound. Physical activity needn’t be a chore though, especially when the benefits of getting up and about are felt firsthand.
Our mind and body are linked intrinsically, and good health in one usually beckons the other to follow. Getting our heart rates up and using our bodies as intended works wonders for blowing the cobwebs from our minds.
A little exercise produces a range of endorphins, which not only have a cheering effect but encourage us to continue working out in the future. Where seniors are concerned, all that’s necessary to feel these benefits is to go for a stroll outside, an activity that often promotes healthy socialization, too.
2. Fostering Social Connections
Speaking of healthy socialization, communication with our fellow man is also critically important. Conversation and interaction force us out of ourselves, and leaving the confines of what might become a stagnant or depressive worldview can do wonders to freshen our perspective and improve our outlook. We’re social animals who quickly begin to starve for interaction, oftentimes without ever realizing it.
A conversation or even a brief positive interaction with someone is a balm for a troubled mind. In these terms, making friends who we can talk to about our troubles, or a shared interest, ticks an integral box required for good mental health. As far as beneficial mental health activities are concerned, social interaction is one of the more foundational things to get right.
Interacting with people and learning about them helps us tremendously in understanding ourselves. The more interaction we have with people, the more information we have to draw upon in this regard. Knowing ourselves and feeling sure of who we are is a great advantage when it comes to improving our mental health.
3. Promote Cognitive Stimulation
Mental stagnation is the death knell of mental health. Mental wellness for seniors hinges on constant and rewarding mental stimulation perhaps above all else. As the adage goes, “Use it or lose it!”
Aging mental health and seniority are thought to be somewhat inevitable, but that’s nonsense. There’s no reason we can’t fully retain our mental faculties long into our later years, so long as we have an aim to keep ourselves sharp. Doing so means fostering an active cognitive life, which means keeping our minds well-oiled through regular use.
Playing games with other seniors, or indeed anyone who enjoys them is a perfect solution. Combining the joy of playing, socializing and mental stimulation together is a miraculous strategy for boosting senior cognitive health in more ways than one. They say “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks”, well, try telling that to a senior who has found joy in playing video games!
4. Nutrition
We are what we eat, and leveraging the truth of this is another solid strategy for improving mental health. The truth of the matter is that although our seniors might have a sweet tooth, constantly indulging them isn’t the best idea as far as their mental health is concerned. As previously mentioned, the link between body and mind is inarguable, and health in one promotes health in the other.
Instead of subjecting our bodies to dealing with ultra-processed foods and their numerous pitfalls, making healthier choices will soon have a noticeable positive effect. While the instant gratification of chocolate or a favorite cake cheers us in the short term, the long term is a different story.
Swapping candy for fruit is a great start, and leaves little to be desired. Once the benefits are felt, seniors tend to build on this change themselves.
5. Purposeful Engagement for Senior Mental Health
A life without purpose feels empty. Feelings of emptiness compound negativity, and negative cyclical thoughts are a recipe for poor mental health.
Finding hobbies that are not only enjoyable but also contribute to a greater cause does wonders to alleviate feelings of emptiness. Seniors have a great wealth of knowledge and wisdom to offer, and many find volunteering and participation to be a great comfort, no matter the niche.
6. Mental Health Support
Giving seniors an outlet to discuss their mental health openly is one of the best ways to address the root of a problem. Sometimes all we need is to be given the opportunity to divulge our thoughts to someone in person. Mental health support comes in many different forms and is most commonly found in an attentive friend or family member.
Not everyone is fortunate enough to always have someone on hand to talk to, however. Making a point to let seniors know their troubles won’t fall on deaf ears is important for maintaining their mental health and improving it as time goes on.
To this end, a dedicated group or service where seniors can discuss their trials and tribulations does wonders not only for the individual but for everyone who takes part.
Hidden Meadows on the Ridge in PA
We understand the importance of senior mental health at Hidden Meadows on the Ridge and are proud to say our services are second to none in the Sellersville, PA, area. We’re located in the heart of a nature-rich campus, the beauty of which helps to bolster our residents’ mental health simply by being so scenic.
Our familial culture and dedication to our senior’s comfort provide the ideal foundation for continued mental health. If you’d like to learn more about the senior social activities and day trips we provide, don’t hesitate to reach out! We’d love to hear from you.
