How to Stay Emotionally Healthy

Aging leads to many health concerns, and one’s mental health often gets neglected in favor of other issues. Additionally, factors like sudden changes in one’s living situation and lifestyle may lead to social isolation and can adversely affect one’s emotional health. While some situations cannot be controlled, seniors can adopt simple and specific measures to prevent feeling isolated and depressed. Here are some practical ways to help one maintain emotional wellness in one’s golden years.

Interact with loved ones and neighbors

It can be challenging to manage loneliness when one is elderly, especially in a new setting, such as a retirement community. While a change in location or circumstances can alter relationships, one must try to stay in touch with loved ones. One can help prevent or manage depression by talking and spending time with people. One should reach out to friends who live nearby and meet for a chat or invite them home to spend more quality time with them. One can also interact with the neighbors and look for social clubs for seniors.

Spend more time with family

Spending time with family members also improves one’s emotional health. If one has grandchildren, one can participate in activities with them. For example, one can take them to the park or hobby classes or join a hobby class together for a more fulfilling experience. Aside from spending time with immediate family, one can depend on extended family members for support and companionship.

Use technology to stay connected

Technology has made it simple for people to stay connected. Take video calls, for example. They allow one to have face-to-face conversations with loved ones far away. Besides that, one can learn to use social media to stay updated with the lives of those around. Social media is also a great way to learn about the events in the city and worldwide, helping one feel more connected to society.

Join an exercise group or class

Regular physical exercise can boost one’s mental and emotional health. While going on regular walks and jogs is an option, joining an exercise group or class can allow one to meet new people. Exercise groups focus on workouts for older people as a form of social engagement with fellow seniors. Also, studies have found that laughter therapy is highly beneficial for older adults. So, one can join a laughter therapy group or form one of their own!

Try activities that encourage mindfulness

Engaging in mindfulness activities is a proven method for improving individuals’ mental and emotional health. These simple activities let one increase awareness of one’s thoughts and achieve mental focus and relaxation. A few everyday mindfulness activities for seniors include journaling, listening to relaxing music, coloring, and breathing exercises. One can even take a relaxing walk and notice the various elements and activities outside. Observing the sounds and colors of nature is also a way of practicing mindfulness.

Take care of a pet

One of the most effective ways to fight depression and boost emotional health is to spend time with a pet. So, if one has a pet, one must spend quality time playing with them and walking outside. It also opens up other avenues to socialize, as one can arrange pet playdates and join pet-parent communities. However, not every senior can care for a pet physically and financially, and some residential centers or rentals may not allow for pets. In such cases, one can always volunteer at pet shelters or look for similar voluntary programs.

Try reminiscing therapy

One can also try reminiscing therapy, which is proven to help decrease stress, increase joy, and improve overall emotional health. The process involves visiting old memories and talking to an individual about them, such as a therapist. One can view old photo albums, watch old videos, read old letters and diaries, or listen to the songs one grew up listening to as a part of the therapy. While reminiscing therapy is highly effective, one must consult a licensed therapist for the best results.
One can attempt new hobbies, learn a new skill, or pick up an old interest for mental and emotional stimulation. It is also essential to have a healthy lifestyle, sleep well, and eat healthy for improved mental health.