5 Effective Tips for Seniors to Manage Stress

Senior years come with the wisdom and comfort of retirement, but certain health complications and living situations may put them under a lot of stress. The major reasons for stress are often physical disability, illness, or the loss of a spouse. There are many strategies for seniors to choose from to manage stress. Family caregivers must know the importance of stress management and how to help seniors. This will enable their ageing loved one to stay as often as they can. Experts in At-home care Edmonton, AB; explain the effects of stress and how it can be managed.

Effects of Stress

You may know stress can affect your loved ones' moods or how they act, but it also has physical effects on the body. Stress can result in the following:

● Headaches

● Sleep issues

● Chest pain

● Stomach problems

● High blood pressure

● Loss of appetite

● Loss of thirst

Stress Management Tips for Seniors

Stress management is an important skill for seniors to acquire, as individuals age their bodies are more vulnerable to the effects of stress. While exercise and breathing exercises are commonly recommended to reduce stress, there are some other, more unconventional, approaches that can be particularly effective for seniors. Engaging in meaningful activities, such as learning a new skill, volunteering, or spending time with family and friends can be a great way to reduce stress. Research has found that seniors who remain active in their communities experience lower levels of stress and depression than those who are more isolated. Additionally, participating in activities that are enjoyable, such as gardening, playing a musical instrument, or doing puzzles, can be a great way to reduce stress

1. Take up a Hobby

Learning to dance, making crafts, and taking a class can reduce stress by giving seniors something else to focus on. In addition, seniors can consider doing anything that interests them.

2. Watch Fish

Sitting in front of a fishbowl or tank and watching colourful fish swim about, opening their mouths, and even watching their tiny fins moving accordingly can be highly relaxing. A study performed by Purdue University found people with Alzheimer's who watched fish were calmer and more alert.

3. Do Puzzles

Puzzles involving brain functions like Sudoku and crossword puzzles are amazing stress relievers. They benefit ageing adults who cannot enjoy life due to unstable situations and memories bothering them. These games or puzzles require concentration, making it difficult for seniors to think about negative things.

4. Grow a Bonsai Tree

Caring for a small, beautiful bonsai tree is known almost as a meditative practice. This task continues since the tiny tree requires care and pruning as long as it lives.

5. Perform Repetitive Tasks

Activities that require doing the same thing repeatedly, like shelling peas or folding laundry, can be pretty relaxing for seniors with dementia or memory issues. The tasks are very simple, so you will not get frustrated and exhausted. This repetition of activity is quite soothing.

How to Help Seniors with Stress Management

If your ageing loved one is dealing with stress, a compassionate family caregiver can make a real difference. You can encourage them to engage in relaxing activities when noticing signs of stress and depression. Moreover, simply having someone around can prevent them from spending time thinking about the things causing stress. Consider having friendly Home Care Services Edmonton families can count on. This way, your loved one can have a chance to engage in new, mentally and physically stimulating activities and age in place with family and cherished memories.