Many seniors, even those who receive home health care, face emotional and physical hardships that make them more susceptible to anxiety and stress. When left unaddressed, stress affects and exacerbates health and mental problems such as heart conditions, blood pressure, and depression. Learn how you can help yourself or an aging loved one to better reduce stress and improve their quality of life.

How to Boost a Seniors Mood

1. Identify the Cause

While some stress is normal, there are many reasons why seniors encounter more of it than normal. These sources can be major life changes like living away from family, starting home health care, or retirement. Often, the best way to deal with stress is to identify it and deal with the situation directly.

2. Meditate

Many people who find themselves in stressful situations might be preoccupied because of the increased mental stimulation. Meditation helps people focus on the present moment and become more aware of their behavior and initial reactions to stress. If meditation doesn’t come naturally, practice a little bit at a time.

3. Exercise Regularly

Exercise releases endorphins, the feel-good hormone that helps relieve stress. Whether on your own, with a home health care provider, or in a group class, being purposefully active has many other benefits such as strengthening muscles, improving balance and coordination, and enhancing social connections. You’ll also feel stronger and more confident, which helps you feel more capable of managing stress.

4. Change Routine

Changing your habits offers a new perspective and a different way of thinking. Learning something new or participating in a new group activity such as a painting class can reduce anxiety. If you have home health care, ask your aide to assist you in making changes to your routine.

5. Laugh

Laughter, like exercise, releases endorphins but also reduces cortisol, the stress hormone. Allowing yourself time to joke around with friends, watch a funny movie, or have fun with your grandchildren can help you cope with stressors in your life.

An award-winning home health agency, Lifetime Care has served the senior community in New York since 2006. They cover the Finger Lakes region, including Rochester, Newark, Auburn, Dundee, and Lakeville. A charitable organization, they provide an array of quality services including palliative care, pharmacy services, and acute rehabilitation. If you or an aging loved one is thinking about hiring home health care providers, look no further. Call (585) 214-1000 today or visit their website to explore their services today.