Did you know that it is normal for aging seniors to feel overwhelmed and stressed? Stress hormones can negatively affect your physical health. Many studies have shown that elevated levels are connected to high blood pressure, weakened immune systems, and heart disease. Stress in older adults can also directly relate to insomnia, late-life depression, cognitive decline, and Alzheimer's disease. This is why it is so important to find ways to manage your mental and physical wellness!
Ways to Determine if You Might Be Suffering from Stress
- Experiencing mood swings or increased irritability
- Experiencing memory problems and/or unable to concentrate
- Suffering from insomnia or a noticeable change in sleep patterns
- Shying away from social encounters or from activities you previously enjoyed
- Experiencing frequent tension headaches or heart palpitations
- Overeating, frequent indigestion, weight loss, or gain
Stress-Reducing Tips for Seniors
Here are a few ways you can reduce stress in your life and start feeling great every day!
Identify your Stress Factors. Before you can begin reducing stress, you must determine your stress factors. Write them down. Speaking to someone you feel comfortable with is an option too. Once you know what is causing your stress, you can begin to figure out how to reduce or eliminate it.
Try Something New. Step away from your normal routine. Try a new hobby, or instead of sitting on the porch, take a stroll around and enjoy the scenery that surrounds you. Switching up your daily routine sometimes is an easy way to help manage stress.
Connect with Others Socially. Sometimes just talking to a loved one or good friend is helpful. Being open to expressing your feelings, maybe even having a good cry is a way to help ease some stress you may be experiencing.
Try Concentration Exercises. Yoga or meditation is a great way to help you let go of the tension that stress causes. Try taking a few deep breaths when you start to feel overwhelmed or anxious.
Have Some Laughs. They say, "Laughter is the Best Medicine!" Laughter is proven to release the neurotransmitter, dopamine, which is great for your brain. It creates a feeling of euphoria and plays a pivotal role in motivation.
Senior Helpers offices in Toronto and across the Greater Toronto Area can provide loved ones with companion care to lessen stress.
Everyone can use a helping hand and our companion care services are flexible and customizable to your specific situation. Our caregivers enjoy assisting seniors with hobbies, errands, meal preparation, and many more services when needed.
