Self-Care Tips For Seniors

Author

Accessible Home Health Care

For more information about the author, click to view their website: Accessible Home Health Care

Posted on

Jan 10, 2024

Book/Edition

Florida - Southwest

share-this
Share This

  Self-care is an important part of everyone’s mental health, especially seniors. As we get older, our health might not always be at its best, and it can become easier to feel a lack of independence, which can harm mental health.

There are many ways that seniors can participate in self-care. All of them are easy enough to do and require only as much or as little as our loved ones can handle. 

We’ve compiled a list of some simple tips to keep seniors on the road to positivity and health. Knowing what your senior loves and cherishes the most will help determine how you can help them participate in self-care.

Types of Self-Care

There are many different ways seniors can keep themselves active and happy. Many people think that self-care only means things that physically take care of someone. However, self-care can also be activities that simply bring people joy. For seniors, that can be physical activities, relaxing with a good book, or hanging out with some family or friends. 

Check out our list below for some helpful ideas to help your senior loved ones find those nuggets of joy in their everyday lives.

  • Exercise

The best way someone can look out for themselves is by taking care of their body. One of the ways to accomplish this is through exercise. For seniors, that can be tough, especially if they struggle with bodily autonomy. The great news is that exercise can be any body movement that keeps your body agile. For example, walking is a great way to stay active. Sources like the CDC recommend that adults 65 and older walk about 30 minutes daily. Yoga is also an effective, non-strenuous activity that can increase mental well-being. 

  • Eating Healthy

Healthy eating is great for both mind and body. We can give ourselves a bit of self-care by making sure that the food we put into our bodies is the best food available. Seniors especially need to be sure they are eating well to give their bodies the nutrients it needs to maintain. Eating a balanced diet doesn’t mean we can’t have fun with what we eat. It just means we think kindly of ourselves when planning our meals. 

  • Skin Care

Taking care of your outer body, such as your skin, can also help you take care of your inner body, such as your mind. Making a daily routine of applying lotions to our skin helps keep our bodies healthy and gives us a moment to pause and take a break from the world around us. This routine can help us have a more positive mind and become more relaxed. Our skin care can be something we do at the start of the day to get us on the right track for success or at the end of our day to help us relax before going to sleep.

  • Good Sleep/Relaxation

Everyone knows that good sleep and good health go hand-in-hand. If you don’t get enough sleep, your physical and mental health suffers. It is suggested that we get at least 8 hours of sleep a night to be fully refreshed for the day. Sleep isn’t enough on its own. We have to also go into the day with a relaxed mindset. This means doing tasks that increase mindfulness and relaxation. One of the ways we can do this is by participating in meditation. For seniors who struggle with relaxing, a helpful tip might be to try breathing exercises or yoga. This is a simple way to make big mindfulness changes.

  • Nature

Spending time in nature helps more than just someone’s mental health. Being in the sunshine or around flowers and greenery can also be good for our physical health. Research has shown that being outside helps alleviate stress and worry as well as reduce anger and sadness. People who spend time in parks or out hiking through the woods/forests are more likely to be cooperative and empathetic. Even something as simple as gardening can brighten a senior’s spirits and put them in a better mood for the day.

  • Plans with Loved Ones

One of the easiest ways to practice self-care is by making plans with people who mean the most to you. Being surrounded by love and support is one of the best ways to turn anyone’s mental health around. These plans can give seniors something to look forward to and alleviate any stress that may come up as part of everyday living. It’s one of those self-care items that can be done with or without leaving home, which is even more exciting.

  • Journaling

As we get older, it can become easier to forget the things in our lives that bring us joy. One way seniors can take care of themselves is to start a gratitude journal. This encourages them to focus on the positive instead of the negative. It keeps their focus on the things going great instead of what isn’t meeting their expectations.

  • Start a New Hobby or Revisit Old Ones

Hobbies are something that anyone can find joy in. These activities can be something seniors haven’t done in a while or simply something new. Putting together a puzzle, finishing a crossword, or even knitting something for a loved one can be something seniors do to pass the time and keep their minds sharp. These activities provide serotonin which in turn relaxes worries and anxieties. Focusing on a task can provide your loved ones with some much-needed “me time.”

How Can We Help Our Loved Ones?

There are many ways we can help our loved ones stay on the positive path in life. If you believe that your older loved ones are experiencing depression or having a negative self-outlook, being there and reaching out can help them find joy. 

Being there for your loved ones to encourage them or even give them ideas for how they can participate in self-care is the greatest gift you can give them. They may not be receptive to your suggestions, but never give up on trying to encourage and include them. Eventually, they will start to actively take on these self-care activities themselves. Making it a family thing may help them be more open to trying these activities.

If you aren’t physically able to be there for your loved ones and encourage them daily, enlist others who can. This could simply mean asking their in-home caretaker to try new activities to encourage them multiple times a week. Accessible loves helping your elderly loved ones feel empowered to engage in self-care, whether at home or in the community. There is no wrong way to self-care as long as you do it.

Other Articles You May Like

Is Your Current Home Still a Fit for the Retirement You Envision?

Retirement isnt just a milestone its the start of something truly meaningful. After decades of hard work, youve earned the right to slow down, pursue your passions, and live life on your terms.But stepping into this exciting new chapter often comes with big decisions, and one of the biggest is this:Does your current home still match the lifestyle and budget you want for this next phase?Its a timely question. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the cost of living has risen by 23% over the last five years. If youre thinking about how to make your retirement savings go further, those rising costs matter.Heres the good news: you may have more options and more control than you think.Many retirees are choosing to relocate to make the most of their retirement dollars. Moving to a lower-cost area (or even downsizing) can reduce major expenses like housing, utilities, and taxes, giving you more freedom to enjoy what truly matters.That could mean more travel, picking up a new hobby, spoiling your grandkids, or simply enjoying life with less financial stress.And you dont have to move across the country to make it work. For some, its about moving closer to family. For others, its trading city life for a quieter suburb where money stretches further.The key is making a plan that aligns with your retirement goals, and that starts with evaluating if your current home still serves you.Whether youre thinking about downsizing, relocating, or just exploring your options, partnering with a trusted real estate agent can make all the difference. They can help you understand your local market, simplify the selling process, and even connect you with vetted agents in other areas if youre considering a bigger move.Youve worked hard for this chapter. If your current home no longer supports the life you want, it may be time to ask:What does your ideal retirement look like?Could a move help you make it even better?Lets talk about how to turn that vision into reality. Connect with us at 941-275-2914 Or visit https://linktr.ee/NaplesParadiseLiving

Through independence, life plan communities flip the script on aging

By Sarah RichardEach May, Older Americans Month is observed to recognize the older adults in our lives. The 2025 theme, Flip the Script on Aging, focuses on transforming the way society perceives, talks about and approaches aging. This theme encourages Americans to challenge stereotypes and dispel misconceptions about the older generation, while also shining a light on the opportunities for connections, exploration and purpose that we discover as we age.Aging is a beautiful thing. With each day and each moment, you obtain a wealth of knowledge that can only come from a life of lived experiences. The thrill of life doesnt have to stop once you transition to a resort-style senior living community. In fact, its the perfect time for life to become more exciting.Transitioning into a senior living community is a unique period in your life youre setting sail on a new way of living and seeking new, enriching experiences. With a different way of living comes a wave of fresh opportunities a chance to try that hobby you've never had the time to explore, to make a new friend or to unlock hidden passions.  Moving into a new community is a perfect opportunity for you to step out of your comfort zone alongside a community of like-minded individuals. When the time is right, entering a resort-style senior living community poses several benefits for retirees seeking a new experience. In a life plan community, you have the freedom to adopt a new daily routine, fall in love with a new hobby and discover lifelong friendships. Most of all, making the move to a life plan community ensures that youre taking the right steps to provide yourself with a new quality of life.What is a life plan community?Life plan communities, also known as continuing care retirement communities, are a form of senior living that offer residents the full continuum of care. Life plan communities include independent living, assisted living, memory support and skilled nursing, but older adults can enter a life plan community at any stage and transition to a different level as their needs shift.       Independent living is for retirees who do not require health services but no longer want to bear the burden of home ownership and upkeep, planning the grocery list every day, or the many other things that keep you from spending time doing what you enjoy.      Assisted living is for adults who require help with daily activities, such as dressing or bathing, but also desire the independence and amenities of a life plan community.       Memory support is a safe and controlled environment designed to care for adults experiencing cognitive decline.      Skilled nursing is for adults recovering from an illness or procedure, or those with chronic conditions that require daily attention.Through independence and enriching lifestyles, life plan communities work to break the stigma that often surrounds the concept of senior living communities and the outdated stereotype of a nursing home. Life plan communities are an entirely new way of life, from the activities and events to the people you meet and experiences you gain. Opportunity for connectionSenior living professionals understand that older adults can suffer from depression and anxiety as they age. According to the federal Centers for Disease Control, about 4% of adults aged 70 and over have depression. To combat this issue, life plan communities curate robust activity calendars that encourage residents to get out, have fun, and make connections.Socialization leads to increased mental and physical health, which is particularly important for older adults. Spending time with other people, even through a phone call or video conference, promotes sharper memory skills, lowers stress and reduces risk of chronic illnesses, while also providing a sense of purpose. Gulf Coast Village, Cape Corals only life plan community, encourages new residents to attend events so they can meet new people and become more engaged with their new home. Oftentimes, residents will form their own friend group and will continue to participate in activities together in the months and years ahead. Taking the extra step toward socialization in a new environment can be a rewarding experience, leading to increased mental wellness and enjoyed experiences. Regardless of size, life plan communities make socialization convenient for older adults to spend time with one another through a tight-knit environment, robust activities and planned events.Retirement isnt the end of the enriching life youve always lived its the beginning of a new chapter filled with fresh opportunities and meaningful experiences.  At Gulf Coast Village, residents are encouraged to keep pursuing their unique hobbies and share the joy with their neighbors. Residents are invited to collaborate to create their own clubs and activities, building connections with neighbors and friends.Some residents teach art classes, some teach in the woodshop, while others volunteer part-time in our on-campus thrift store or even join a committee.In a life plan community, youre never alone. You are surrounded by fellow retirees also navigating lifes journey.About the authorSarah Richard is the executive director of Gulf Coast Village. To learn more, visit GulfCoastVillage.org or call 239-510-8712.  

Navigating Medicare, Health, Life, and Travel Insurance: Essential Updates and Guidance for 2025

It is illegal for an insurance agent to call you regarding Medicare, Do not talk to someone you have not given permission to call.  Ask them for their National Producer number and report them to Medicare for an unsolicited call. CMS has made many changes for Medicare recipients. If you want to enroll or review your plan over the phone, you need to agree to be recorded, and Medicare requires us to keep the recording for 10 years. In person, appointments do not have that requirement, but you need to sign a scope of appointment that authorizes us to talk to you about Medicare Advantage or a Drug Plan. It does not allow us to do anything but talk to you about these topics. One of the biggest changes for 2025 related to Medicare Part D Prescriptions whether withing a Part C Advantage plan or a stand-alone Part D drug Plan. Your yearly Part D out-of-pocket costs will be capped at $2,000 in 2025. You must buy medications using your plan and the medication must be in formulary to go toward the cap. You will also have a payment option to pay out-pocket costs in monthly amounts over the plan year, instead of paying when you receive the medications. This is done through the insurance company that you purchased your plan. When you turn 65 you are eligible for Medicare, once you have worked 40 quarters roughly 10 years there is no cost for Medicare Part A. Part A covers Hospitals, Skilled Nursing, Home Health & Hospice. Medicare Part B you can choose to take at 65 or you can hold off if you are still working and have credible coverage. If you do not have group health insurance that is considered qualified, and then you want it you would have a late enrollment penalty for each month you did not have Part B & Part D and that penalty will last for the rest of your life. Part B covers doctors, imaging, blood work, ambulance, durable medical equipment, etc. Part D is a Medicare Drug Plan and covers medications. During your initial enrollment period it is especially important to understand your options! Medicare Supplements/Medigap Plans are NOT guaranteed issue you may need to medically qualify. You can purchase a Medigap Plan during your 1st 6 months on Medicare Part B without medical underwriting. There are a lot of things you need to know. Again, work with an agent you can trust! Especially important: when you move you need to know your options. Can you keep the same plan? Do you need to make a change and what does that look like? Special Enrollment Periods You moved out of your plans service area, New to Medicare, Retiring and coming off of your employer group plan, Going into or out of Skilled Nursing, Medicaid and others may apply. We offer Free Medicare Seminars in Lee & Collier County please e-mail info@logicalinsurance.com to register or call 239-362-0855 for dates. Medicares website is www.Medicare.gov. Travel Insurance Did you know that most health insurance does NOT cover you outside of the country and that includes a cruise, in international waters (4 miles out). Travel insurance is not just about trip cancelation but most importantly what if you got sick or had an accident on your trip. Medical Trip insurance is very important and most of the time not very costly when you out way the benefits. Life Insurance You are never too young to have life insurance, and many types offer living benefits. As an example, I purchase life insurance for my grandchildren almost as soon as they are born. Their policy continues to build cash value that they can use during their lives, for education, wedding or even a 1st home purchase. The younger you are the lower the cost. There are many types of life insurance, and it is important to understand the differences between them. You also have payment options, such as 10-Pay, this type of policy you can pay the premium in full in 10 years, there are other terms available as wellLong Term Care Insurance Overall, 48.7% of older adults with ADL difficulties (or an estimated 3 million persons aged 70 and older) reported needing some sort of personal assistance with one or more ADLs, and, of those individuals with need, 20.7% (or an estimated 629,000 persons) had an unmet need. Long Term Care Insurance helps pay for in-home or facility-based needs, such as assistance with acts of daily living or help with paying for a facility. Start shopping for this insurance in your 40s, but its never too late to try.  Your overall health will pay a major roll in the cost of the plans premium.  The sooner than later for affordability.  You have payment options such as a single payment, 10-Pay where the premium is paid-in-full in 10 years. You also get a discount with most companies doing a joint policy with your spouse. Remember Medicare is NOT meant for Nursing Home Care/Skilled Nursing.  Logical Insurance Solutions is a SWFL Insurance Broker that works with most of the carriers, we are happy to help you through the maze. This is what we do daily, it is second nature to us. We offer virtual seminars, one on one Webex, phone and in-person appointments.To learn more about your options call to schedule an appointment contact: Logical Insurance Solutions for all your insurance needs, I am licensed in 36 states. www.Logicalinsurance.com    239-362-0855    info@Logicalinsurance.com By Ulla-Undine Merritt (Dee) National Producer Number (NPN) 8853366

Local Services By This Author

Accessible Home Health Care of Naples

Home Health 3606 Enterprise Ave #251, Naples, Florida, 34104

Accessible Home Health Care of Naples, Florida, is a Joint Commission accredited agency dedicated to providing high-quality in-home health care services for seniors and individuals with memory loss in Naples and surrounding areas. Our compassionate caregivers are available 24/7 to assist with daily tasks, provide companionship, and improve the quality of life for our clients. Whether you need hourly visits, live-in caregivers, or customized home care, our team will work with you to create a plan that fits your family's needs and budget. Contact us today to find the perfect caregiver for your loved one and enjoy peace of mind knowing they are in good hands.In addition to our standard in-home health care services, Accessible Home Health Care of Naples offers specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer's, dementia, and memory loss. We understand the challenges these conditions present and are committed to providing the highest level of care to ensure our clients' comfort and well-being. Our caregivers are trained and certified to assist with tasks that may become difficult for individuals with memory loss, such as bathing, running errands, and cooking. We also offer in-home companion care to prevent loneliness and provide engaging conversation, as well as respite care for family caregivers who need support. With Accessible Home Health Care of Naples, you can rest assured that your loved one is receiving the personalized care they deserve.

Accessible Home Health Care Of Naples

Non-Medical 3606 Enterprise Ave #251, Naples, Florida, 34104

Accessible Home Health Care of Naples, Florida, is a Joint Commission accredited agency dedicated to providing high-quality in-home health care services for seniors and individuals with memory loss in Naples and surrounding areas. Our compassionate caregivers are available 24/7 to assist with daily tasks, provide companionship, and improve the quality of life for our clients. Whether you need hourly visits, live-in caregivers, or customized home care, our team will work with you to create a plan that fits your family's needs and budget. Contact us today to find the perfect caregiver for your loved one and enjoy peace of mind knowing they are in good hands.In addition to our standard in-home health care services, Accessible Home Health Care of Naples offers specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer's, dementia, and memory loss. We understand the challenges these conditions present and are committed to providing the highest level of care to ensure our clients' comfort and well-being. Our caregivers are trained and certified to assist with tasks that may become difficult for individuals with memory loss, such as bathing, running errands, and cooking. We also offer in-home companion care to prevent loneliness and provide engaging conversation, as well as respite care for family caregivers who need support. With Accessible Home Health Care of Naples, you can rest assured that your loved one is receiving the personalized care they deserve.