Self-care for seniors shouldn’t sound weird. On the contrary, it should be something to promote because if there’s anyone who deserves the best self-care, it would be people above 50.
You see, most seniors go through life caring for others, and they become so used to it that caring for themselves sounds foreign. But no matter the age, caring for oneself can do a whole lot of good physically and mentally.
Importance of self-care for older adults
Self-care is about caring for your physical, mental, and emotional needs so you can enjoy all-around wellness and happiness. No matter your age, it can help you:
- Become more emotionally aware
- Handle stress well and build healthy coping systems
- Manage depression and anxiety
- Build better relationships with yourself and others.
6 ways to practice self-care as an older adult
Now that you’ve crossed the 50s and are wondering what self-care for adults looks like, know that there are six ways to get started with making your health a top priority. Let’s get going with discovering what these are:
1. Move as often as possible
As you get older, you’d likely be inclined to sit more. But it would help if you didn’t give in because a sedentary life at this time may make you age faster than you’d want.
Instead, take a 30-minute walk daily around your neighborhood or park and see beautiful sceneries. Take a breath of fresh air and feel the sun’s warmth.
Spending time in nature offers a relaxing feeling and lowers your blood pressure. If you can jog, do so.
2. Eat healthy meals
Nutritious meals can help you feel happier and less irritable. Consume foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fat, and avoid red meat and fried foods.
Foods good for the skin, such as fatty fish, can help promote better-looking skin and slow down wrinkling as you age.
3. Do light to moderate-intensity exercises
Physical exercises are not for the youth alone; they keep you more energetic, irrespective of your age.
Engaging in about 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercises daily can:
- Improve your mood, strength, and confidence
- Boost immune function
- Prevent chronic pain
- Reduce your risk of getting diagnosed with heart diseases
And what’s more, scientists have found that women with physical activity are 90% less likely to get neurodegenerative disorders like dementia.
4. Don’t forget your skin
Your skin is the first part of your body where you begin to see signs of aging. But you can reduce those wrinkles and still glow by getting the right skin care treatment for your skin type and condition. From anti-wrinkle treatments to full-face rejuvenation, you can still look youthful even in your 60s.
5. Get a hobby
Hobbies offer a therapeutic escape away from the noise and unpleasant realities of life. Perhaps, you could join a yoga class or book club.
Whether you’re knitting, doing embroidery, or reading a book, a beloved hobby can help you rekindle that spark of joy when you do something you love.
This may seem trivial, but it’s one self-care practice with noticeable benefits. Indulging in something you love brings bring a sense of purpose to each day.
6. Connect socially and emotionally
A feeling of isolation is one factor that incredibly contributes to depression in seniors. To avoid that feeling of despair, spend time with loved ones. This could be other seniors in the neighborhood, especially when your family members are no longer around you.
Take time out to visit or invite your loved ones and distant relatives. You can even join a workout session just to be around people.
Connecting with people helps you avoid negative feelings replace them with positive ones, relieving stress and bolstering happiness.
Self-Care For Older People
Self-care is essential for everyone. And when you’ve lived a long life filled with work and responsibilities, it’s time to give yourself a break. Eat well, get sufficient sleep, make time for luxuriant relaxation, making the most of this fantastic life phase.
great article. helpful.thanks