September 2024 - Golden Heart Summerlin

The likelihood of loneliness and depression increases with age, which can present serious obstacles to mental and emotional health. A number of things, including losing loved ones, health problems, and fewer social connections, might make these emotions worse. Seniors can, however, actively address these problems and have happy, connected lives if they are equipped with the appropriate strategies and have support from home care.

Keep Socializing

While it might be difficult, especially at first, it’s important for seniors to keep up with social ties. Home care and loved ones can encourage seniors to maintain regular phone conversations, video chats, or in-person visits with friends and other family members. Additionally, they may enjoy meeting new people by attending community events, going to the senior center, or even volunteering.

Focus on Physical Activity

Exercise has been shown to elevate mood and reduce depressive symptoms. This is thanks to the rush of endorphins, which are naturally occurring mood enhancers that are released during exercise. Engaging in social activities such as walking, swimming, or senior-specific group exercise courses might help counteract loneliness by fostering social connection. This is also good for seniors’ overall health, as they should shoot for 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days a week. While they may feel shy starting out, home care can help them take the first steps.

Enjoy Hobbies and Interests

It’s easier to socialize when there are a group of like-minded people in the setting. With this in mind, seniors should be encouraged to seek out ways they can enjoy their hobbies and socialize at the same time, such as with a quilting group, book club, or gardening club. The same goes for their interests. If they like music, they should attend the local concert in town. The more they branch out of their comfort zone, the more their depression subsides.

Consider Getting a Pet

A quick cure for loneliness or depression is to add a pet into the mix. Pets offer company, reduce feelings of isolation, and promote exercise—especially if they’re a dog that needs frequent walks. However, it’s important to keep seniors’ budget and physical capabilities in mind when considering if they should get a pet and what type. If it is determined that owning a pet won’t work, they may enjoy volunteering at a shelter instead.

Engage Mentally

Feelings of depression can be avoided by keeping the mind active. Reading, solving puzzles, playing games, learning a new language, and engaging in other cognitively stimulating activities might help divert the mind from unpleasant thoughts. For seniors, they should schedule time each day to engage their minds. Even better? Home care and loved ones can encourage them to continually try new things, which not only keeps them engaged but also reduces boredom.

Seek Professional Advice

Even with the best of intentions, depression symptoms can occasionally linger. In these situations, getting expert assistance is essential. Senior-specific counseling, therapy, or support groups can offer invaluable coping mechanisms for depression and loneliness. Also, with the rise in technology, many therapists now offer virtual appointments, which can be easier for seniors.

Senior depression and loneliness can be avoided with a proactive strategy that incorporates mental, physical, and social stimulation. By utilizing the tips above and getting support from home care and loved ones, seniors can actively work to reduce these feelings and improve their overall health and well-being.

Sources:
https://www.helpguide.org/mental-health/depression/depression-in-older-adults
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/depression-in-elderly

If you are considering home care in Summerlin, NV for an aging loved one, please contact the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Summerlin. 702-800-4616

With age, the importance of maintaining bone health increases, especially since seniors’ quality of life can be greatly impacted by osteoporosis and other bone-related disorders. Although bone density is influenced by genetics, bone health can be significantly impacted by lifestyle decisions. With this in mind and home care assistance by their sides, seniors can incorporate some of the following tips to ensure they’re doing all they can to maintain the health of their bones.

A Good Diet Provides Energy for Strong Bones

When exploring bone health, seniors should take a look at their diets and consider the following advice:

Calcium and Vitamin D: The development and maintenance of bone density depend heavily on calcium. For this reason, foods high in calcium, such as dairy, leafy greens, and fortified cereals, should be a goal for seniors. Also, the absorption of calcium requires vitamin D. Seniors can keep their vitamin D levels in check by eating foods like fortified milk and fatty fish and by spending time in the sun.
Balanced Diet: Eating a diet high in fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains promotes bone density and general health. Also, nuts, seeds, and whole grains are good sources of magnesium and phosphorus, which are also beneficial to bone health. With home care assistance, seniors can try new recipes and ways to fix foods to enjoy a more well-rounded diet.
Stay Hydrated: It’s critical for seniors to stay hydrated for general health, which includes bone health. Sufficient hydration promotes the absorption of vital nutrients and preserves the health of bone structures.

Strengthening Bones Through Exercise

Weight-bearing exercises, such as running, dancing, and walking, help in the development and maintenance of bone density. Additionally, seniors can increase bone density and strengthen the muscles that surround their bones by lifting weights or utilizing resistance bands. Strength training also improves coordination and balance, which reduces the risk of falling. Last but not least, seniors should be encouraged to work on their flexibility as well. This can be done by incorporating balancing exercises such as yoga or Tai Chi. Also, exercises for flexibility can increase general mobility and lower the chance of injury.

The Dangers of Smoking on Bone Health

Smoking weakens bones and raises the risk of fractures by reducing bone density and compromising blood supply to the bones. However, for seniors who have smoked for many years, giving up the habit is often easier said than done. Seniors struggling with smoking should be encouraged to talk with their medical team.

Managing Chronic Illnesses

Bone health can be impacted by long-term illnesses like diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. Not only that, but the medications used to treat certain conditions may also affect bone density. If seniors are dealing with chronic conditions, it’s important for them to talk with their medical team about regular bone density tests.

The Indirect Effect on Social and Mental Health

Physical well-being is influenced by social relationships and mental health. Depression and stress can have a detrimental effect on one’s general wellbeing and amount of physical activity. By promoting an active and satisfying lifestyle, social interaction and stress management can also positively impact bone health indirectly.

Age-related changes in lifestyle have a big impact on bone health. Seniors should take proactive measures to promote their bone health by concentrating on the tips and tricks above. With home care assistance and support from their medical team, they can make any necessary changes and give their bone health a boost.

Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/bone-health
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7909112/

If you are considering home care assistance in Summerlin, NV for an aging loved one, please contact the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Summerlin. 702-800-4616

Month: September 2024

5 Strategies for Reducing Depression in Seniors