How to Care for Your Emotional Well-being in Senior Housing
Caring for one’s well-being is essential regardless of age, but it becomes more important, particularly for residents in senior housing. As senior adults navigate the new living arrangement, the emotional, physical, and psychological adjustments may impact their overall health.
It is vital to maintain a healthy environment in senior housing communities. From stress management, physical and meaningful activities, social connections, and support groups, every senior deserves an enriching experience and quality of life even in senior housing.
Mental Health in Senior Housing
The well-being of senior adults is crucial to maintain an overall quality of life. Older people are more prone to dementia, depression, anxiety, isolation, sleep, and behavioral disorders.
According to Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), at least one in four adults experience depression, dementia, anxiety, or some type of mental disorder. Unfortunately, mental health services for senior adults are very limited, especially in most countries in the Americas.
The number of senior adults experiencing mental disorders is expected to double by 2030. And with the extremely limited services and treatment that seniors get, senior housing and its staff can be of help in fostering a healthy environment and support for senior adults.
Research suggests that seniors can greatly benefit from close personal relationships, understanding, and nurturing support groups. With an encouraging environment and comprehensive mental care, mental health issues are addressed.
How to Care for Your Emotional Well-being
Caring for seniors’ well-being means not only taking care of their physical but also emotional and mental needs as they face emotional and social difficulties. Health and medical challenges related to aging, loneliness due to the loss of a spouse, and other life transitions are difficult and may negatively impact an individual’s quality of life.
For senior residents, changes may be challenging, but it is crucial to be proactive in strengthening your mental and emotional well-being. Here’s how:
Stay Active
Exercise is not only beneficial for physical health but also for mental health. Physical activities help release the happy hormones in the brain, the best remedy for managing depression and anxiety.
Have at least 30 minutes to an hour of physical activity regularly to boost your mood, go outside, and socialize with other senior residents.
Stay Connected with Family and Friends
Keep your ties with family and friends to prevent loneliness from severely affecting your mental health. Keep a routine or activity that family members or friends can participate in like shopping, exploring the nearest attractions, dining out, or simply cooking family recipes together.
Healthy Diet
Start embracing a healthier and balanced diet to fuel your brain and body. Eating healthy meals helps prevent diseases like diabetes, certain cancers, and high blood pressure and maintain a healthy weight.
Take a Lot of Rest and Sleep
According to American Psychology Association, adequate sleep can lead to a happier and healthier life. But as people grow older, the risk of sleep disturbances like insomnia also increases leading to depression and other health risks.
Talk to your doctor about sleep medications, make your bedroom more conducive to a good night’s sleep, eat healthy meals, or talk to a professional if have trouble sleeping.
Looking for excellent senior care in Nebraska? Click here to learn more about Richmont Senior Living!
Richmont Senior Living is proud to serve Ashland, NE and the surrounding cities: Memphis, Springfield, South Bend, Greenwood, Murdock, Waverly, Murdock, Ithaca, and Chalco
