How can you stop the “I’m too old for this” mindset and encourage individuals to pursue what they like, challenge themselves and try new things?
1. Create a Sense of Purpose
We all need a sense of meaning, belonging, and worth, regardless of age. Seniors are sometimes rejected as having less to offer than when they were younger, and sadly, this attitude is internalized among elders. They have a lot to offer in terms of wisdom, love, and innovation, but they should first feel appreciated and involved before sharing with others.
2. Identify (and treat) depression symptoms
Seniors are more vulnerable to depression. The symptoms may include lack of a child-caring role, job loss due to retirement, moving from home to care facilities, chronic illness or pain, the death of the spouse or close friend, etc. Depression is a severe, incapacitating condition that is not a standard part of ageing. If a senior loved one looks depressed, family and friends should encourage them to get treatment.
There are numerous varieties of depression. However, the following are some classic symptoms:
• Long-lasting sadness.
• Hopelessness
• Mood swings
• Lack of interest
• Exhaustion
• Sleeping and concentrating problems
• Discomforts that do not have a physical origin
3. Find Effectiveness in Everyday Activities.
Put your older adult to work if you want to help them find meaning in their lives! They’ve spent their entire lives defining themselves by what they achieve and offer. It doesn’t have to be anything complex. Helping to prepare a meal, babysitting a child, caring for a pet, gardening, folding laundry, or going shopping are all good and effective against depression. Don’t do it for them on some days if they are capable themselves.
4. Try to connect with Elders to improve their lives.
Loneliness (a significant cause of depression) is generally linked with ageing, but you don’t have to be 65 to experience its effects. According to new findings from a recent study, one out of three Americans aged 45 and up is lonely. Of course, the senior should maintain regular contact with family and friends, but they should also look for opportunities to socialize with others. According to one study, simply saying hello to a neighbour lowered the number of lonely people by half. Isolation gets them to feed on their loneliness. Push them to interact with people and the things outside of the house. Inspire them to join a group of people interested in the same things they are.
5. Maintain your physical health.
The link between both mental and physical health is well known. Moderate exercise not only improves and preserves physical strength but also develops your confidence, pride, and a greater sense of independence. All of those are necessary for feeling good about life.
6. Take good care of your mental health.
Friends and family can aid the elderly in maintaining their mental sharpness for as long as needed. Seniors can set goals such as learning a new hobby or travelling to an unknown destination. They should consider what interests and activities give them a sense of importance and explore them more. Family can help their elders by utilizing their lifetime knowledge and experience. Ask them and find out what they think. Motivate them to open up about their experiences. Nobody spends 60 years or more without learning a great deal of helpful information and obtaining unique viewpoints.
