Your senior mom or dad’s mental health is just as important as their physical health. But, often older people are reluctant to admit if they are struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental health symptoms.
Seniors who live alone have an increased risk of poor mental health if they become socially isolated, lonely, or don’t spend enough time doing things like participating in hobbies. That’s why if your mom or dad is aging in place they should be taking steps to protect their mental health as well as their physical health.
Companion care at home can help. If you live far away from your mom or dad, or you have to work and can’t visit as much as you’d like, regular visits from a companion can provide the social interaction that your parent needs.
Companion care at home means that your mom or dad will have daily visits from someone who can help them with activities, play card games or board games with them, and make sure they don’t become disconnected or isolated. Some other things that your mom or dad can do to protect their mental health if they’re living alone are:
Reach Out to Neighbors
Neighbors can be a great resource for seniors living alone. Chatting with a neighbor outdoors, or getting visits from a next-door neighbor, or being active in neighborhood events can all keep your senior parent connected socially. Being an active part of the community will help your mom or dad develop strong relationships with the people who live nearby in case they need help.
Establish Daily Routines
Help your mom or dad establish and maintain daily routines, including regular mealtimes, exercise, and sufficient sleep. Having structure in their day can provide a sense of stability and purpose for seniors, which can be beneficial for mental health. Seniors who feel like they have a reason to get up in the morning are more likely to have good mental health.
Stay Active and Engaged
Help your mom or dad get some kind of regular physical activity, which has been shown to have positive effects on mental health. If they have limited mobility and can’t go for walks or do much exercise they can do chair exercises, or have a physical therapist come to the house. Occupational therapy is also a great option that will encourage your mom or dad to move more.
Practice Self-Care
Encourage your parent to prioritize self-care activities that promote relaxation and stress reduction. This could include practicing mindfulness or meditation, taking leisurely baths, spending time in the backyard enjoying the outdoors and chatting with neighbors, or enjoying hobbies they find enjoyable and rejuvenating.
Seek Professional Support
Remind your mom or dad that it’s okay to ask for help when they need it. Encourage them to reach out to a mental health professional if they’re experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or loneliness.
Therapy or counseling can provide valuable support and strategies for coping with the challenges of living alone. It may be a tough sell to get your mom or dad to consider therapy, but talking to a professional can be a big help for seniors living alone.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Companion Care at Home in Lincoln, NE, please contact the caring staff at Caretech today at (402) 697-5121
Caretech provides the best care services for seniors and families throughout Nebraska including Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue, Grand Island, Kearney, Fremont, Norfolk, Hastings, Columbus, Papillon, North Platte, La Vista, Scottsbluff, South Sioux City, Beatrice, Lexington, Chalco, Gretna, Gering, York, and surrounding areas.
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