Approximately 75% of individuals aged 65 years and above in the UK have experienced high levels of anxiety and low mood at least once after turning 65. And depression affects 40% of those in care homes, based on the recent Center of Mental Health briefing. Poor mental health is an inevitable part of getting older. That’s something you’ll often hear health professionals say. As you age, you’ll encounter challenges (physical health issues, loss of loved ones, mobility difficulties, financial insecurity after retirement). These problems make an individual feel lonely, anxious, and depressed- factors that interfere with your mental health negatively. However, aging shouldn’t come in the way of your positive mental health. You can maintain your psychological wellness with the right support and resources. This short guide aims to provide practical ways to boost your mental health in later years.
Anticipate Changes And Prepare
Ageing involves physical and psychological changes, some yrou might not like. Your mind may not be as sharp as it was in your 40s or you might not be quick on your feet, for example. Painful joints will make mobility hard and your eyesight or sense of taste and touch may fail. What you can do to stay healthy mentally is to accept these changes. Then focus on eating nutritious foods, exercise, and prioritize getting plenty of sleep to re-energize. On top of physical changes, your work life will take a shift.
Maybe your time to retire is almost due or you want to continue working, but on a part-time or flexible hour basis. Financial concerns, like pensions, local amenities for older adults, transportation, wills, end of life, and funerals, are other concerns that can ruffle up your mental soundness. Having a strategy can help you address these concerns as you get older. For instance, research about pension credits and life insurance plans on the UK government’s website. Then plan your finances for later years to avoid financial stress. If you are going into retirement, think of a new skill or hobby you could learn and set a schedule for it. Alternatively, find volunteer opportunities at your local council to stay busy. When you anticipate and accept changes that come with being older, you can do things that keep you healthy. And you’ll less likely battle low mood and depression.
Ask For Help
When you’re growing old, it’s normal to feel uncertain. And to wonder if you can handle house chores, budgeting, and looking after yourself. Feeling unsure can make you feel stressed and degrade your mental wellness. Instead of struggling with matters that frustrate you, ask for help. The people you’ll turn to first are your friends and family, of course. Study findings reveal that social support promotes health, as it strengthens one’s coping abilities, quality of life when dealing with stress, and overall wellness.
Note, social support doesn’t come from your network of friends and family only. Your general physician can provide counselling, recommend exercise therapy, or suggest specialized care from a qualified therapist, for instance. You could also consider moving into a respite care center if you desire a break from your home. This kind of care home offers the elderly a short-term stay in a safe and supportive environment to boost their psychological and physical wellness. Caregivers at home can also take a break to care for themselves, too.
Stay Active, Physically And Mentally
What exercise does is release good feel endorphins (hormones) in the brain that boost mood and lower stress levels. Research studies on the Mental Health Foundation website reveal individuals who are active feel more awake and enthusiastic. Daily exercising also lowers the risk of cognitive decline and depression by 20% to 30%. In later years, however, exercising can be difficult. The best option is to do light workouts for 30 minutes every day for five days, as recommended by the department of health can make a positive impact. Choose to walk up and down the stairs instead of using the elevator, cycle, slow dance, walk, swim, and care for the garden. If you have mobility challenges, stretch while sitting to promote blood circulation. Along with physical workouts, exercise your brain with crosswords, read books, learn a new language, or play board games (chess, scrabble, or cards).
Moving through different stages of life (growing old) involves changes in circumstances which alter your mental health. Bereavement, retirement, chronic diseases, and mobility challenges cause depression and anxiety in your senior years. Fortunately, you can keep your mental wellness positive by being aware of lifestyle changes and getting ready for them. Asking for help and staying physically and mentally active are other vital ways to protect your psychological wellbeing.