Mental Health and Seniors

Many ring in the new year with a long list of resolutions. These plans to better the coming year are often short-lived, and, often, people overestimate their commitment to these new life choices. However, one easy new year’s resolution that can be renewed year after year is to take steps to care for your mental health.

As people grow older, they become busier, and many older adults, especially those who live alone, feel isolated and unhappy. A CDC study of mental health in older adults aged 55+, it is estimated that 20% of seniors experience some type of mental health concern. The most common conditions include anxiety, severe cognitive impairment and mood disorders, such as depression or bipolar depression.Staying connected and maintaining strong, meaningful social connections with friends and family goes a long way towards preventing mental health issues in seniors. The CDC reports that social support is associated with reduced risk of mental illness, physical illness and even mortality.

Playing mind games is a great way to stimulate the brain and to avoid cognitive decline. Just as the body needs physical activity to stay healthy, the brain needs stimulation to stay sharp. Playing mind games can sharpen thinking skills and improve short-term memory. Common and accessible activities for seniors include reading, writing, learning a new language, playing an instrument, and playing puzzles or games.

Getting exercise is another great way to benefit both the mind and body. Low-impact exercises, such as stretching and strength training, are necessary to keep seniors healthy and reduce the risk of common age related problems. Exercise can also help manage stress, anxiety, and depression, which can be just as detrimental to seniors’ health as physical ailments and injuries.

Staying connected with friends can prevent feelings of loneliness and isolation in seniors. Easy ways to stay in touch using social media include FaceTime, Zoom, and Skype. Phone calls and letter-writing are other ways to communicate with loved ones if meeting in person is not an option.

While these are not all of the ways that seniors can care for their mental health, these options are fun and easy. It is extremely important for older adults to take care of their mental health; without a healthy and stable mind, they are more susceptible to other physical ailments and conditions. By making an effort to do mind-healthy activities each day, older adults can greatly benefit. Whether it’s completing a crossword puzzle each morning, going for a few walks a day or even journaling, there are simple and quick activities to complete that will help tremendously in the long run.

At Elder Law of Omaha our passion for seniors and their care is top priority. If you have questions about estate planning or how to plan for long term care and the future, then please give us a call to set up your complimentary 30-minute consultation at 402-614-6400. Visit our website at www.ElderLawOmaha.com.