Ways to Help Your Senior Improve Their Mental Health

Since the pandemic swept across the globe in 2019-2020, mental health issues have been at the forefront of many people's minds. The aging population may have suffered the most. They already struggle with a dwindling social pool as spouses and friends pass away. Mobility issues also make it harder to leave home and interact with others. The lack of contact can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and depression. It is possible to give your aging loved one the opportunity to improve their mental health, starting with the support of a home care worker.

Helpful Suggestions to Help Your Senior's Mental Well-Being

There are many ways to combat the loneliness that comes with aging. They include:

1. Encourage seniors to stay physically active. It is easy to sit back and enjoy the day in a recliner. The problem is that too much time sitting will affect a person's physical health. Talk to Mom and Dad about ideas to keep them physically fit, such as walking daily, joining an exercise class, and weight lifting. They need to give their bodies the physical movement it needs to remain healthy and heal better if they fall.
2. Work with them to create a nutrient-dense menu. Frozen dinners may be easy, but they are not adequately nutritious. Sometimes, ill-fitting dentures may make it difficult to chew certain foods. Choosing foods that are loaded in nutrients but easy to eat, helps feed their muscles even if they aren't eating large portions. In short, they need to get as much nutritional mileage as possible out of their meals at this age. A personal support worker can help with cooking for your senior to make things easier.
3. Research social opportunities. Another way to help your senior adult is to find ways to help them engage socially with others. For example, look for sports they can join, like an aqua fitness class or pickleball. See if there are any book clubs nearby or start one they can join. Encourage them to join groups focused on a favourite hobby like knitting or pottery.
4. Remind them that giving back helps them too. Volunteering is a wonderful way to pass on skills and knowledge to those who need it most. It enables the giver by reminding them that they have much to offer others. As your aging parent volunteers, sit back and watch them grow personally as one of their rewards.

Seniors Counter Poor Mental Health with Assistance from Home Instead

We all need to feel needed, especially the elderly. Give your loved one the tools they need to combat depression when you choose services from Home Instead Mississauga. We have many benefits to ensure your aging parent lives fully and on their terms. Our team loves supporting their clients with cooking for seniors, personal care assistance, light housekeeping, companionship, and much more. Contact us today for services tailored to your mom or dad's needs.

Call us at (905) 276-2273 to schedule a no-obligation, in-home consultation. Learn more about the compassionate, quality senior care we deliver every day, to families in All Mississauga including: Clarkson, Cooksville, Dixie, Erin Mills, Erindale, Lakeview, Lorne Park, Port Credit, Sheridan, Streetsville.