The Importance Of Brain Health In Aging: 7 Tips To Maintain Cognitive Function

Discover compassionate ways to offer comfort and support to a friend who is navigating the challenging journey of losing a spouse.When a friend loses their spouse, it's a profoundly challenging and emotional time. As a supportive friend, you may wonder how best to help them navigate this difficult journey. In this guide, we'll provide insights on what you can do and say to be there for your grieving friend and offer comfort during their time of loss.Offer Your CondolencesExpress your sympathy with a heartfelt message, even if its as simple as "I'm so sorry for your loss." Let your friend know that you're there for them during this challenging time.Listen ActivelySometimes, the most valuable support is a listening ear. Allow your friend to share their feelings and memories, and be present without judgment or interruption.Use Empathetic LanguageUse phrases like "I can't imagine what you're going through" or "I'm here to support you in any way you need." Show empathy and understanding in your conversations.Avoid Clichs or PlatitudeWhile well-intentioned, phrases like "Everything happens for a reason" or "Time heals all wounds" may not provide the comfort you intend. Instead, offer genuine empathy and a willingness to listen.Offer Practical AssistanceGrieving individuals often appreciate practical help. Offer assistance with household chores, cooking meals, or running errands to ease their daily responsibilities.Respect Their Grief ProcessGrief is unique to each individual, and it has no set timeline. Allow your friend to grieve in their own way and avoid imposing expectations on their healing process.Remember Special DatesAnniversaries, birthdays, and holidays can be particularly challenging. Reach out on these occasions to offer support and companionship.Share Fond MemoriesReminisce about the deceased spouse and share stories and memories. This can be a comforting way to reflect and celebrate their life.Encourage Self-CareGrief can take a toll on physical and emotional well-being. Encourage your friend to prioritize self-care, including proper nutrition, rest, and exercise.Offer to Accompany ThemAttend memorial services, support group meetings, or therapy sessions with your friend if they are open to it. Your presence can provide emotional support.Be Patient and AvailableGrief often comes in waves, and your friend may have moments when they need support unexpectedly. Be patient, and let them know you're available when they need you.Respect Their Need for SpaceWhile your support is valuable, also respect your friend's need for solitude and moments of privacy to process their grief.Send Thoughtful Messages or GiftsSend cards, small gifts, or thoughtful messages to remind your friend that you're thinking of them and that you care.Continue to Reach OutGrief doesn't have a set end date. Continue to check in on your friend regularly, even months after the loss, to ensure they know you're there for the long haul. Supporting a friend who has lost their spouse requires compassion, patience, and understanding. Your presence, both physically and emotionally, can provide immense comfort during their grieving process. By offering genuine empathy, active listening, practical help, and a willingness to be there through the ups and downs of grief, you can provide invaluable support to your friend as they navigate this challenging journey. Remember that your friendship is a source of solace and strength during their time of loss.

Do you experience feelings of hopelessness? Have you lost pleasure in activities you once enjoyed? Do you cry more frequently? Have you gained or lost weight? If you have experienced a combination of these symptoms, which have persisted for two weeks or more you may be suffering from depression.One in five Americans live with a mental health conditionor 43.7 million people. 6.9% of adults16 million peoplehave experienced a major depressive episode in the last year. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death, the 3rd leading cause of death for those aged 1024, and the 2nd leading cause of death for those aged 15-24 (statistics from the National Alliance of Mental Illness).For the elderly, depression affects 6.5 million of the 35 million adults over the age of 65. The senior population accounts for 20% of all suicides, the highest success rate belongs to senior men. Depression is the leading factor to seniors attempting suicide. Those statistics are staggering and chances are either you or someone you know suffers from depression or another mental health condition.October 10th is Mental Health Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness for mental illness, providing educational resources, as well as reducing the stigma attached to mental illness. Take some time to recognize the warning signs of depression as well as the signs of suicide.Warning Signs of Depression:Persistent sadnessLoss of interestFatigueInsomnia or excessive sleepingFeelings of hopelessness or worthlessnessDecrease in energyDifficulty concentratingIncrease or decrease in appetiteThoughts of death, dying or suicideSlowed thinking, speaking or body movementsIf your or your loved one exhibits these warning signs of depression, seek medical and professional help. Depression is not a normal sign of aging and there are treatment options available.In addition to the warning signs of depression, it is important to pay attention for the following behaviors (suicide warning signs from SAVE- Suicide Awareness Voices of Education).Warning Signs of Suicide:Talk about suicide, e.g. I have nothing left to live for. I wont be a burden on my family much longer. I should just kill myself. Statements of hopelessness, helplessness or worthlessness.Preoccupation with death.Suddenly happier, calmer.Loss of interest in things one cares about.Unusual visiting or calling people one cares about saying goodbyes.Making arrangements; setting ones affairs in order.Giving things away.Stockpiling pills or obtaining a weapon.Refusal to follow doctor-prescribed medications and/or special diet.If you suspect your loved one is considering suicide the most important thing you can do is to talk with them. Here are a few steps you can take if you are concerned for your loved one.1. Ask Questions. Talking about suicide may seem counter-intuitive. Many people are afraid to ask a loved one whether or not they are thinking about suicide. However, talking with your loved one is the most important thing you can do to assess their thoughts and where they stand. Here are four important questions to help evaluate your loved ones suicide risk:Do you ever think about suicide?If you were to hurt yourself, how would you do it? (The plan/method).Have you thought about when you would do it? (The timeline).Do you have access to what you would use? (Access to method).2. Provide Reassurance. If your loved one is actively considering suicide they need to feel heard and understood. Dont shame them for their thoughts and feelings. Instead, reassure them that there is help and treatment options available.4. Remove Suicide Method. Remove any apparent methods for committing suicide, such as weapons or stockpiled pills.3. Seek Treatment. Help your loved one seek medical and mental health treatment. Immediately, assist your loved one in setting up appointments for a medical evaluation and help your loved one get to the appointment.There is hope, depression can be treated and suicide can be prevented. Know the warning signs and seek treatment options.

In observance of National Mental Health Awareness Month this May, the spotlight is now turning toward a previously overlooked demographic: seniors. While mental health has gained significant attention in recent years, researchers are uncovering the unique challenges faced by older adults. As we strive to pave the way for healthy seniors, its crucial to value the importance of a positive mental health mindset and habits.The psychology of aging is changing. As they start to retire, baby boomers are changing the way we think about senior citizens and mental health awareness. According to a study from the Institute on Medicine, approximately 1 in 5 older adults in the United States has a mental illness, substance abuse disorder or both.Researchers who have studied mental wellness over a lifespan noticed that older adults with chronic conditions, such as heart disease, are more likely to experience depression as well. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that for seniors, doctors may dismiss concerns of depression or loneliness, and seniors are left misdiagnosed or undertreated. In fact, due to the longtime cultural stigma around mental health issues, seniors may be more reluctant to seek help, or they may dismiss their own concerns because they do not believe that they need assistance to feel better. Reasons Why Seniors Struggle with Mental HealthThere are various reasons that seniors often struggle with mental health concerns, and while there are no set causes, research has shown that these factors are related to the risk of mental illness but do not necessarily cause it:    Medical conditions, such as stroke or cancer    Genes people who have a family history of depression may be at higher risk    Stress, including caregiver stress    Sleep problems    Social isolation and loneliness    Lack of exercise or physical activity    Functional limitations that make engaging in activities of daily living difficult    Addiction and/or alcoholism Life transitions related to the environment and changes in circumstances can also trigger periods of mental health disturbance. Transitioning from a lengthy career, experiencing family relocation or adjusting to life in a senior living community can evoke feelings of anxiety and depression in otherwise healthy seniors. During these times of transition, team members at Anthology Senior Living communities are equipped with the resources to aid residents. Dont be afraid to seek out mental health programs for older adults and encourage mental health improvement activities, such as exercising and meditation. Moving for SeniorsSome life events, such as a big move, can trigger more emotional changes in seniors. When moving into a senior living community, treat the transition with care. There are several emotional stages of moving, and some seniors could become depressed after moving to a new home. If emotions about moving arise, it can cause psychological challenges in older adults. To ensure quality of life for seniors who are moving, pay attention to any emotions or feelings your loved one might have, and help them process each consideration to help mitigate the emotional challenges that may come up.Talk to your loved one about the benefits of living in a retirement community, and if necessary, encourage conversations and utilize community and Anthology Senior Living support to gather resources about mental health services for seniors. Social Connections Are Essential for Healthy SeniorsAnother benefit of living in an Anthology Senior Living community is the opportunity to meet new people and create new social connections, which can ease the stress from moving. Communities like Anthology of Blue Ash help welcome new residents by introducing them to fellow neighbors and inviting them to dine with their new friends. Social connections are essential for not only surviving but also thriving. However, as individuals age, they frequently discover themselves spending increasing amounts of time in solitude. Research indicates that loneliness and social isolation are correlated with elevated levels of depression.