Author: sageage

It’s important to talk to your doctor before starting any exercise program. They will advise on programs based on current health and fitness levels.

There’s no way around it. Regular exercise for seniors can greatly improve not only physical health but mental health too. We know how good exercise is at any age, but for seniors, it’s especially important to get out and move. We’ll explore how much exercise is too much for seniors, along with the benefits of exercise, what types are great for seniors and more.

Importance of Health and Fitness for Seniors

Engaging in regular exercise might be the closest thing to the fountain of youth. Regular physical activity has been shown to reduce the risks of heart disease, high blood pressure, colon cancer, and diabetes in older adults. Additional benefits of exercise for seniors include:

• Better balance and a decrease in falls
• Improved mood and outlook
• Greater overall energy levels
• Improved bone health
• Stronger muscles
• Greater range of motion and flexibility
• Improved quality of sleepThe best news about exercise and seniors is that it’s never too late to start. Even if you have lived a generally sedentary life, starting and sticking to a regular exercise program can improve the quality of your life.
  

  What is Moderate Exercise vs. Vigorous

  As you begin a fitness program you may hear a lot about moderate and vigorous exercise. Aerobic activity at a moderate intensity includes brisk walking or hiking, bicycle riding, water aerobics, and even yard work. You’ll know you are engaging in moderate exercise by using a 10-point scale. Sitting would rate at a zero. A casual stroll along a flat surface might rate a 2. Moderate intensity is at a 5-6 when you can feel your heartbeat, and you’ll be breathing harder, but you can still have a conversation. Anything above a 6 is considered vigorous.

  You can also check with your doctor and ask about what a target heart rate would be for your age and level of fitness. Purchase a heart rate monitor for an easy way to track your moderate and vigorous intensity levels.

  The intensity level will vary from person to person. What’s moderate for some may be vigorous for someone else. As you become more fit, you’ll see that you can exercise longer and your level of fitness will improve. Any moderate activity could be amped up and turned into a vigorous workout.

  How Often Should Seniors Exercise

  How often a senior should exercise will depend on current level of fitness and what their capabilities are. If you’re just starting to get back into an exercise routine and after your doctor’s approval, it’s best to ease into workouts and work up to the recommended time of:

• 2 ½ hours (150 minutes) for moderate intensity
• 1 hour and 15 minutes (75 minutes) for vigorous activityBroken down, that’s about 30 minutes a day, five days a week of moderate exercise, and 15 minutes a day for five days a week for vigorous activity.Because everyone’s fitness level is different, it’s important to do physical activities at a level that is appropriate for you and your capabilities.Remember, physical exercise is not only done at the gym. If you mow the yard at a moderate intensity level and it takes 30 minutes, you’ve just had a workout. Additional ways to add in physical activity include:
• Playing with the grandkids
• Taking a pet for daily walks
• Walking to the bus stop or grocery store
• Taking the stairs
• Yard work

How Much Exercise is too Much for Seniors?

Too much exercise for seniors can increase the risk of physical injury and even a fatal medical event, such as a heart attack. Engaging in exercise without warming up or simply doing too much in one work out session can increase the risk of injury. It is important that you check with your doctor before engaging in any physical exercise routine.

After the doctor’s okay, you may feel eager and excited to get back into it. That’s a great attitude! When you begin a new workout, ease into the routine, take it slow and note how you feel before and after. With changing bodies, there may be exercises that you no longer can or need to do. In most exercises, there’s a modification or substitute you can do to accommodate mobility issues and other issues.

After exercising, you’re bound to feel stiff and sore muscles for a day or two after. But others sign of discomfort such as nausea, shortness of breath, or fatigue are signs you may be overdoing it. Or it could be signs of something more severe, and you should talk with your doctor immediately.

Types of Exercise Best for Seniors

Within our Life Care Services Communities, there are opportunities to engage in group exercise classes, walking clubs and wellness programs and other physical activities.

To get a well-rounded exercise plan, be sure to include aerobic activity, weight training, and strength and balance training.

Aerobic activities include:

• Walking
• Jogging
• Dancing and aerobics classes
• Water aerobics
• Swimming
• Bicycling

Stretching and balance training include general stretching exercises, yoga, Pilates, tai chi, ballet, and other forms of dance. Yoga and Pilates can be adapted for those with mobility issues.

Weight training may sound intimidating, but the benefits are hard to ignore. Many weight training programs can be modified for those with limited mobility or who are wheelchair or walker-dependent. If you feel like you need help in the weight room, gyms and recreation centers have personal trainers who can help with form. You shouldn’t do all these activities in one day. If you don’t know how to properly perform an exercise, enlist a personal trainer who can help you maintain good form.

You shouldn’t do all these activities in one day. Set up a schedule such as Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for weight training and Tuesday and Thursday for stretching and balance training. The important thing is to be as consistent as you can.

The Best Time to Start is Now

Starting something new, like an exercise program, has its challenges. It may come as a surprise that we can no longer do certain activities or exercises due to age or injury. But it is important to remember that it really is never too late to get in shape and be the fittest you can be.

If you’re thinking of moving into a retirement community for yourself or a loved one, be sure to check out the amenities and services offered. As fitness becomes more integral to your life, you’ll want to live in a community that will be supportive of that lifestyle. Life Care Services has over 130 communities across the United States. Our communities have some of the finest fitness services around, including swimming pools, state-of-the-art fitness centers, personal training, and more. To find a community, talk with us today!

Many people think that Alzheimer’s and dementia are the same and use the terms interchangeably. However, there are distinctions between the two. It is important for effective treatment and management to know these differences. We’ll learn more about dementia, the types, causes, and how it differs from Alzheimer’s.

What is Dementia?

Many people assume Alzheimer’s is a broad term for all dementia. Alzheimer’s is actually a common form of dementia and falls under the dementia umbrella, not the other way around. More specifically, dementia is considered a syndrome, not a disease. Dementia is a decline in mental function with a loss of memory, cognitive functioning, problem-solving, remembering, reasoning, thinking, attention, and other issues.

Dementia is not a normal part of aging, and some types of dementia are very rare. People with the following factors may be at a higher risk of developing dementia:

• Age
• Trauma or head injuries
• Poor heart health
• Race and ethnicity
• Family history
• Certain health conditions

Early symptoms of dementia can be mild such as forgetfulness or losing track of time. Dementia can progress and lead to changes in behavior, depression, confusion, and even the loss of remembering faces of loved ones. Treatments for dementia can help manage symptoms. Currently, there is no cure for irreversible types of dementias.

What are the Types of Dementia

We often think there are only one or two kinds of dementia. However, medical professionals have identified up to 400 different types of dementia. Some have similar or overlapping symptoms, which can make a diagnosis difficult. In some cases, one person may have multiple types of dementia. If this happens, it is called mixed dementia. We’ll discuss a few types of dementia, from the more common to rare forms.

Dementia with Lewy Bodies

Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB) is a common form of dementia. Proteins called Lewy Bodies build up within the body and result in symptoms of reduced mobility, shuffling walk, and other signs, including cognitive changes and mental decline. It may be challenging to determine if a person has DLB or Parkinson’s disease because Lewy Bodies are present in those with Parkinson’s disease.

Parkinson’s Disease Dementia

Parkinson’s dementia develops in some but not all people with Parkinson’s disease. People diagnosed with Parkinson’s may develop dementia late in the disease. To complicate matters, dementia with Lewy Bodies and Parkinson’s dementia symptoms may overlap, but each will appear in a different order.

Vascular Dementia

Vascular dementia is a very common type of dementia. This type of dementia is caused by reduced oxygen and blood flow to the brain cells. Blood vessels within the brain narrow and reduce oxygen and blood flow. Without blood flow and oxygen, brain cells die. Keeping blood pressure in check may help prevent vascular dementia.

Frontotemporal Dementia

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) affects everyone differently, and there are several types under the umbrella of FTD. Every kind of FTD can have unique signs and symptoms. A few types of FTD include:

• Picks Disease
• Primary Progressive Aphasia
• Semantic Dementia
• Behavioral Variant FTD
• Logopenic Variant

FTD is not a common type of dementia and can be hard to diagnose. It is a progressive form of dementia and affects behavior and speech.

Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease

Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) is a brain disorder that affects about one out of a million people yearly worldwide. Generally, people with CJD are diagnosed after the age of 60. CJD has similar symptoms to other forms of dementia. These include:

• Faulty memory
• Behavioral changes
• Lack of coordination
• Slurred speech
• Difficulty walking and balance

There are three types of CJD, sporadic, hereditary, and acquired. Each of these types may have overlapping symptoms alongside unique ones, a different prognosis and treatments may vary. One of the differences between CJD and other forms of dementia is the progressive nature of CJD. Many diagnosed with CJD die within a year, whereas other forms of dementia have a slower progression.

Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus

Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is a form of dementia that affects the brain and spinal cord. There is fluid in the spinal cord called cerebrospinal fluid or CSF. When the flow of CSF to the brain’s ventricles is blocked, this will disrupt normal processes. Classic dementia symptoms with NPH include forgetfulness, fatigue, and difficulty walking.

What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s is a specific type of dementia and is one of the most common forms. It is named after Alois Alzheimer, who in 1906 discovered a strange new disease that affected the cerebral cortex.

It’s important to recognize that Alzheimer’s is an actual disease affecting the brain, whereas dementia refers to many brain disorders. Alzheimer’s is located within this group of disorders.

A second major difference between dementia and Alzheimer’s is that some forms of dementia can be reversed. These include dementia caused by a vitamin deficiency, drug interaction, or drug toxicity. Alzheimer’s is not a reversible disease and is considered degenerative and incurable.

Like many forms of dementia, Alzheimer’s worsens over time and affects a person’s language skills, thoughts, and memories. Often symptoms can overlap between dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, and adults over 65 are at a greater risk. However, younger people can also develop both Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Treating Alzheimer’s Disease vs. Other Types of Dementia

Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s or most forms of dementia, there are options and treatments to manage symptoms. Since there are many overlapping symptoms of Alzheimer’s and dementia, treatments may also intersect. Treatments for Alzheimer’s disease and dementia include medications that can help with:

• Memory loss issues
• Sleep problems
• Depression

Of course, with so many forms of dementia, treatments may be specific to a particular type. For instance, a spinal tap is used for those with normal pressure hydrocephalus and not with any other forms of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

Learn More About Alzheimer’s and Dementia

Alzheimer’s and dementia have been with us for many years. And, every year, we learn more and find effective programs and treatments so individuals with any type of memory loss can live with dignity and purpose. There are additional ways to learn more on Alzheimer’s and dementia.  Connect with LCS Foundation, a nonprofit organization that works to improve the lives of current and future generations of seniors through initiatives that support Alzheimer’s research and care.

Talk with your doctor if you or a loved one are concerned with memory loss issues or other signs of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Receiving a diagnosis early can help you better understand your options and prepare for the future.

At Life Care Services, we provide professional services in safe environments for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. To learn more about our resources, request a tour, or use our search tool to find a Life Care Services ® near you.

Healthy eating for seniors is not always top of mind, but it is especially important as we age. That’s because poor diet is a major risk factor for chronic diseases, disability, and death, with nearly two-thirds of seniors over the age of 65 in the U.S. consuming a poor diet. Improving nutrition for older adults is a conversation worth having, and it’s also important to remove the stigma that healthy food for older adults isn’t enjoyable. There are so many wonderful fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, proteins, dairy, and more to love!

Life Care Services®  communities prepare a wide variety of delicious and healthy meals for seniors. It’s all about balance. When dietary restrictions allow, it’s okay to enjoy an ice cream cone or a piece of pizza! However, there are numerous heart-healthy foods for seniors that offer exciting flavors and excellent nutrition to not only provide flavor-filled taste but also health benefits.

Here are 15 foods for seniors that are great for the heart, body, and soul!

Protein

1. Fish

   Yes, one of the best foods to promote heart health is filled with fat! Fish, such as salmon or tuna, contain healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which fight back against cardiovascular disease. Consider easy heart-healthy recipes for seniors with fish as a main course, prepared in the oven. For those who don’t enjoy seafood, fish oil supplements are available to receive your daily omega-3s.

2. Skinless Chicken, Turkey

   Known as lean meats, skinless chicken and turkey with fresh herbs and spices are staples of low-sodium meals for seniors. With the skin removed, and without added salt, older adults consume meals that are healthy, especially if high blood pressure is a concern.

3. Eggs

   While eggs are high in cholesterol, they are nutritious and good for the heart when prepared properly and consumed in moderation. Avoid fried eggs and enjoy this protein without the yolk, which is where nearly all of the cholesterol is found.

   Nuts

4. Walnuts

   A wonderful snack, walnuts (like fish) are filled with omega-3 fats and are a good choice to prevent heart problems. They are also an excellent source of fiber.

5. Almonds

   Filled with unsaturated fats, almonds are another healthy nut and should be enjoyed without the heavy salt and sugar, which can lead to heart health challenges. This nut is also a good snack for lowering what is classified as bad cholesterol or low-density lipoprotein (LDL).

6. Cashews

   Choose unsalted or low-sodium cashews for heart-health benefits. The cashew has been found to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, it can help lower blood pressure, and improve cholesterol ratings for some with type 2 diabetes.

   Fruits

7. Berries

   From blueberries to strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, and cranberries, fruits of this variety are filled with nutritious antioxidants, fibers, vitamins, and of course, delicious juices! Meal preparation for seniors should include berries, especially on salads and low-fat yogurts.

8. Pears, Peaches

   Fresh fruits including pears and peaches are both highly nutritious and can promote heart health, as well as good digestion and anti-inflammation. However, it is important that those fruits be fresh and not canned in heavy syrups or glazes, which often contain lots of sugar.

9. Apples, Oranges

   Similar to pears and peaches, fresh apples and oranges are healthy foods for older adults, from the high fiber and potassium in oranges to polyphenols in apples. The same concern around canned apples and oranges applies. Dried fruits are also less healthy, as the process actually removes many of the healthy benefits.

   Vegetables & Grains

10. Leafy Greens

    Spinach, salad greens, fresh lettuce, kale, and many other types of leafy greens boost vitamins and vital nutrients to promote heart health. The best types of leafy green vegetables are usually dark greens. Leafy greens are a great foundation for senior cuisine, especially when preparing meals for those with high blood pressure or a high risk of cardiovascular disease.

11. Carrots

    A colorful, tasty snack or addition to many dishes, carrots are filled with heart-healthy qualities. Carrots reduce bad cholesterol which can lead to heart disease and is a sought-after food when weight loss is a goal.

12. Whole Grains

    The inclusion of whole grains in senior diets helps reduce heart concerns, including the effects of type 2 diabetes. Whole grains include brown rice, bran, oatmeal, barley, sorghum, and many other varieties.

    Dairy

13. Reduced-Fat Milk

    While even low or reduced-fat milk still contains unhealthy fats, consuming it in moderation (usually two or three servings per day) will provide heart-healthy benefits, like calcium intake. It is best to avoid flavored milk, which often adds unhealthy fat and sugar.

14. Reduced-Fat Cheese

    Many delicious kinds of cheese are prepared with reduced-fat options which limit the trans fats and saturated fats often contained in traditional cheeses. When consumed in limited quantities, reduced-fat cheeses can be a part of a heart-healthy diet.

15. Butter Substitute

While traditional butter does contain calcium and vitamin D, it is also filled with high-fat content.  Consider healthy alternatives to butter such as avocado spread, vegetable-oil spreads, nut butters, or other substitutes.

Enjoy Delicious Meals and Welcoming Communities with Life Care Services

Healthy food for seniors should never compromise quality, taste, and the ability to find joy in a wonderful meal. Professional culinary experts at more than 130 Life Care Services communities across the U.S. prepare dishes so residents enjoy every bite. We also know that food is about more than just nutrition – it’s also about friendship and family. Share a healthy meal with those you love and get to know new friends around the dinner table. We’re always here to help you with senior living support, so find a community today!

Older adults have valuable life experiences, and retirement is an opportune time for seniors to give back by sharing what they have learned.

Senior volunteers can be assets to any project, organization, or initiative, and the agreement is beneficial for both sides. From physical activities to sharing knowledge in a variety of settings, retirees have plenty of options for volunteering, and just need to know where to look.

Life Care Services® has compiled a list of top volunteer opportunities for seniors, and we’ll go over why volunteering for seniors is important.

Where Can Seniors Volunteer?

Everyone, regardless of age, wants to feel like they are contributing to society. There are a number of retired senior volunteer programs and activities that are fulfilling and provide older adults with a feeling of inclusiveness.

Hunger, Service, and Relief Organizations

Older adults have a wide variety of options to give back, including through organizations that distribute food, clothing, and resources to those less fortunate.

Examples include:

• AmeriCorps Seniors – Where over 170,000 senior volunteers are matched with service opportunities. This organization also facilitates foster grandparent programming.
• Feeding America – An opportunity to volunteer at a food bank or mobile food pantry, as well as deliver meals or collect food.

There are an endless number of other organizations that offer local senior volunteer programs like Habitat for Humanity and the American Red Cross. Find an organization that meets your interests and skillset!

Mentorships

Senior volunteers have a lot to offer younger generations who look to them for advice and guidance. Older adults often work with children and young adults through mentorship programs. This can include academic tutoring or school-sponsored reading programs, but also social and cultural mentorships through organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters of America.

Additionally, many of these bonds can be forged through intergenerational activities that are often facilitated through Life Care Services senior living communities. From daycare partnerships to arts and crafts, there is an abundance of options for seniors and children to explore and grow together!

Entertainment and Cultural Centers

Seniors are valuable contributors to local groups that provide entertainment and cultural services for communities. Volunteer work for seniors is needed at the following venues:

• Museums
• Historical sites
• Community tours
• Theatres
• Concert venues
• Sporting events
• Gardens/nature centers

Many older adults are perfect for these roles as they may already have significant knowledge in specific areas. What was once considered a hobby or interest can be turned into a daily or weekly volunteer opportunity.

Animal and Agricultural Organizations

Volunteering for seniors doesn’t always have to include human-to-human interactions. Many local humane societies, animal shelters, and related organizations have opportunities for older adults to care for animals.

Organizations like 4-H also have local clubs where seniors can work with youth through agricultural education, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) initiatives, and more.

Assisting Military Veterans

Supporting local military service members and their families is a critical desire for many seniors. This connection is associated with the national pride that many have garnered themselves from serving in our nation’s armed forces. There are many volunteer opportunities for seniors who want to assist veterans.

Organizations and projects include:

• Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) – Dedicated to volunteerism, Veteran’s Affairs (VA) assistance, and honoring those who have served. Local VFW posts and VFW auxiliary also provide a sense of community
• United Service Organizations (USO) – Connecting volunteers to servicemembers through special events, welcoming ceremonies for troops, and more.
• Honor Flight Network – Celebrating America’s veterans through trips to national memorials.

Fraternal Societies & Community Organizations

Many seniors find fulfilling volunteer work through connection and inspiration. Join a fraternal or community organization that provides charity and outreach to make a difference, such as:

• Rotary International
• Shriners International
• Lions Clubs International
• Kiwanis International

From providing scholarships and financial support for medical care to a multitude of other measures, volunteering as a dedicated member of an organization provides its own sense of community while helping others.

Why Should Seniors Volunteer?

It’s clear that there are many ways for seniors to get involved with volunteer activities, but why is it important to them?

The short answer is fulfillment and time well spent. Those two reasons look different for everyone, but generally, senior volunteers have the opportunity for the following:

• To learn something new
• To make new social connections
• To relieve stress
• To find new interests
• To immerse themselves in existing interests
• To learn
• To effectively manage their time

Experience is Everything at Life Care Services

The senior living lifestyle is never defined by one activity or amenity. However, volunteer opportunities for seniors provide gratification for residents, allowing them to experience joy and recognition for their continuing contributions as older adults. Life Care Services communities are available for seniors and their families to begin to define those experiences, and our staff is here to provide the support and care necessary. We will help you or your loved one determine the next steps for an enriching life. Get in touch with us and talk with our team about your ambitions. Find a community in your area, today!

Retirement is a wonderful time to explore newfound freedoms, enjoy some well-earned relaxation, and grow as individuals. Finding fulfillment in retirement isn’t the same for everyone. Different interests and goals mean every person has the ability to create a custom plan of what retirement looks like for them.

There is a misconception that determining how to thrive in retirement solely depends on your financial outlook. In reality, flourishing in retirement is about creating a plan that will help you embody an enjoyable, healthy lifestyle.

If you are looking for ideas about how to make a retirement plan that fits your interests and goals, you’ve come to the right place. Life Care Services^® has put together several retirement tips that seniors can use to thrive.

1. Have a new perspective
   • We often become entrenched in keeping to a tight schedule at the height of our careers and when raising children. Some retirement advice you can take to heart: look at your life by objectives and not by available time. If you want to experience something new, go for it!
2. Enjoy a hobby
   • From playing cards to hiking, retirement is the perfect opportunity to spend time on your existing hobbies or to find new ones! You get to determine activities that are meaningful and provide challenges that will be rewarding to accomplish.
3. Invest in friendships
   • Social interaction as a senior is great for mental wellness. It’s also a time to rekindle important connections with existing friends and to discover new friendships with others in a senior living community. Look forward to a lot of smiling and laughing!
4. Act on your health
   • Health visits are not just for when you’re sick. Retirement presents the opportunity to check in on your health with medical professionals who can provide guidance for both physical and mental health. This also includes forming healthy eating, sleeping, exercise, and resting habits.
5. Review your financial plan
   • While financial planning is a part of retirement, it’s easy to see it isn’t the only component. Still, you will want to work directly with a professional to organize a plan for your retirement years, and for your family’s future. Many times, seniors may try to plan based on the goals of others their age. It’s important to determine a budget you are comfortable with and allocate your finances as you see fit.
6. Give back
   • The word “giving” is often associated with philanthropy. While financial donations to organizations, schools, and other areas are a great way to give, so is providing advice, mentoring someone, volunteering, or simply supporting others with kindness.
7. Share your knowledge
   • Many seniors have children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who would love to hear stories that can be passed down for generations. Retirement is a time to organize those thoughts and to do your own research on family lineage and history.
8. Embrace learning opportunities
   • Your retirement is not an end to learning, it is a beginning! Seniors have a great opportunity to master new ideas and concepts. Consider taking a class to expand your skills or sitting in on a lecture about a topic of interest.
9. See the world
   • While not a goal for everyone, traveling is an experience many in retirement want to take part in. What does your map look like? Plan destinations with loved ones, family, and friends. New sights and global cultures are waiting for you.
10. Plan a routine (or don’t!) 
    • Setting routines help many retirees keep structure to their day, similar to what they had while working. Others may want to shed the need for that structure. Sticking to a routine is a personal decision, but it can be helpful for some who still want to keep structure to their daily activities.
11. “Work” where you love
    • Many seniors who are retired may have stepped away from their careers but want to find fulfillment in part-time jobs or as paid volunteers. Now is the time to find a position that makes you happy and provides enjoyment when you go to work.
12. Live in a place you love
    • Your living environment should be a top priority in retirement, with access to amenities and comforts that suit your desires. Forget cleaning a home or needing to provide maintenance, a senior living residence should be one that lets you relax and unwind after a day of fun!
13. Enjoy it all
    • When you consider what you want out of retirement, enjoyment should be the number one goal. Breathe it in, and have a great time experiencing all there is to love about retiring.

Thrive in Retirement at a Life Care Services Community

Life Care Services has a wide variety of senior living retirement communities available around the U.S., all of which support residents and their custom retirement plans. We will help you accomplish your goals and align your interests, in addition to presenting options you may not have even known were available.

Ready to get started? Find your community, today!

Protecting our mental health and mental wellness is easier said than done. We tell ourselves to smile or find the good in life, but the truth is, some days can be hard.

The issue of senior mental health is in a category of its own. According to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the World Health Organization (WHO), at least one in four older adults experiences a mental disorder, with depression being the most common issue. People aged 85 and older also have the highest suicide rate of any age group.
As we get older, fears may creep in if we have to navigate any of the following:

• Depression and/or anxiety from isolation
• Mobility issues
• Disrupted daily routine
• Lack of regular exercise
• Dietary changes

To protect our overall health, it’s important to maintain positive mental health as we age. There is so much for seniors to experience. With a little help, you may find that your mental wellness can be better than ever.

Our Mental Health Tips for Seniors

Life Care Services, An LCS^® Company, has compiled a list of the best tips for mental health that seniors can use to enjoy life and remain happy. Let’s take a look at five tips that we have found effective for our residents.

1. Take Part in Social Activities

Senior living communities are built on the foundation of social activity among residents. Seniors can stay active with aerobics, swimming, or walks with friends. Engaging socially is also often done through crafts or playing games. Social relationships can help our mental wellness and reduce the fear of social isolation, while also improving physical and emotional health.

2. Keep a Proper Sleep Schedule

A lack of quality sleep for older adults can reduce quality of life for people over 65. Studies suggest that poor sleep for seniors can relate to poor mental wellness, with hospitalizations, higher mortality rates, and more. There is a myth that we need less sleep as we get older. The National Sleep Foundation debunks that myth, and advises seniors to receive between seven and eight hours of sleep each night.

3. Consult with Medical Professionals

Maintaining positive mental health is a struggle for many people. All seniors are encouraged to take the time to address mental wellness challenges – there is no shame in seeking help. Seniors often benefit from mental health counseling where they can discuss their concerns with a medical professional. Stress can degrade mental health and lead to high blood pressure. Mood changes can also hurt your mental health, as can a lack of cognitive function. Receiving treatment is sometimes necessary and a medical consultation will help you determine an actionable plan if you experience any warning signs.

4. Spend Time with Loved Ones

Family support is a critical component to the psychological impact of aging. Elderly mental health support is built on connections with family members, good friends, and other loved ones. For example, a study from the Gerontological Society of America found that there is a strong mental health benefit between grandparents spending time with grandchildren. In this case, greater affinity or an emotional closeness reduced depressive symptoms for both parties. Similar studies between grandparents and younger grandchildren have been found to also lower depression risks for seniors.

5. Continue to Do What You Love

As our bodies age, we may not always be able to take part in the same activities we enjoyed earlier in life. However, there are often alternatives for seniors. Were you extremely athletic as a younger adult? Perhaps you took part in cultural events and inspired the world. You can still be a part of those activities as a fan, coach, contributor, and supporter. Seniors are encouraged to follow their passions and continue to expand upon what they love.