Our emotional, psychological, and social well-being all fall under the category of mental health. It influences how we think, feels, and act as we navigate life. Additionally, it influences how we deal with stress, interact with others, and make choices. Mental health is critical at any stage of life, especially as we age.
Many older adults are at risk of developing mental health issues. According to a Centers for Disease Control (CDC) study of mental health in older adults aged 55+, it is estimated that 20% of seniors experience some mental health concern. The most common conditions include anxiety, severe cognitive impairment, and mood disorders like depression.
Although the rate of older adults with mental health conditions tends to increase with age, depression and other illnesses are not a normal part of aging. And many older adults are content with their lives, even though they may have more illnesses or physical problems.
The Good News About Mental Health
There are several activities that older adults can do to remain engaged and in good mental and physical health.
- Play games, especially mind games. According to Harvard Health Publishing, brain games can help sharpen specific thinking skills such as processing speed, planning skills, reaction time, decision making, and short-term memory.
- Stay connected and involved with family and friends. Not being in contact with family members can present many health problems for the elderly, including depression and lowered cognitive function. However, there are plenty of simple ways for older adults to stay connected with family members and friends. These include phone calls, emails, and video chats. Schedule a regular time to connect instead of relying on others to contact you.
- Stay active. Physical activity is good for your body, and it’s also great for your mind. Being active releases chemicals in your brain that make you feel good, boosts your self-esteem, help with concentration, and improves sleep.
- Go outside. Strolling through a city park, gardening, or sitting by a pond, exposure to nature has been linked to several benefits, including improved attention, lower stress, better mood, and reduced risk of depression. It has also been shown to improve empathy and cooperation.
- Sleep. Sleep is as essential to our health as eating, drinking, and breathing. You need to get plenty of sleep to have enough energy for your daily activities. Not getting enough sleep affects our ability to regulate our emotions.
It is critical for older adults to maintain good mental health; without a healthy and stable mind, they are more prone to physical ailments and conditions. Older adults can significantly benefit from engaging in mind-healthy activities daily. Whether it’s completing a crossword puzzle each morning, taking a few daily walks, or even journaling, there are a variety of simple and quick activities that will benefit you greatly in the long run.