As an older adult, things such as mobility issues, overall aches and pains, and increased time spent at home through retirement may lead to a decline in your overall mental wellbeing and daily mood.
It is key that you take the steps to regularly care for your mental wellbeing – there are things you can do each day that will support this.
- Meaningful activity
Engage in an activity that is meaningful to you. There are many things that this may mean to you, but see below for some examples to include in your day-to-day life:
- Structured and spontaneous visits and activities with friends and family.
- Taking part in something within your community- whether that’s in a church, community group, volunteer work.
- Emotional and creative stimulation through activities and connections with others.
- Engaging with media you enjoy – whether that’s music, television, books, newspapers, or other
- Get outdoors
Connecting with nature and enjoying the fresh air is an effective way to instantly boost mental wellbeing. Just sitting out on a bench and listening to the birds gets you out of the house is all you need, or a light walk if you can.
If you are retired, you should try to get outdoors every day for at least 10 minutes per day to care for your overall mood and wellbeing.
- Speak to a friend
Talking to a friend via text message, phone call, or arranging to meet for coffee is a great way to boost mental health. If you are retired, and especially if you live alone, you may feel lonelier than you used to. Maintaining friendships and wider connections is key to nurturing your social and emotional health.
- Challenge yourself – small step out of routine
Many of us can fall into the same day-to-day routines, especially in later life. Your mood can be instantly boosted by doing something as simple as making a different breakfast, taking a different route to the shop than usual, or listening to a different radio station. Incorporating new experiences, however small, into your day-to-day life can really help pick you up when you when you feel stuck in a slump.
- Ask for help and extra support
Finally, letting the people around you know if and what they can do to support your overall health and wellbeing is key to caring for your mental health as an older adult. This includes both physical and emotional support – whether you need more help with day-to-day tasks, someone to talk to when you’re down,
Here at Minster Home Care, we discuss your overall health needs and ensure you receive the care you need to support your overall health, happiness, and quality of life. We tailor our services to your needs to ensure your physical, mental, social, and emotional wellbeing are cared for – no one client has the same support package!
