Now more than ever, staying safe and happy at home is so important. Social distancing due to the pandemic has left many of us stuck at home for the better part of the year.
While being at home can be comforting, it can also feel isolating and lonely. As the weather turns colder, we must find more ways to stay engaged from inside.
Seniors may be feeling the strain of isolation, so we’ve come up with seven tips to help them stay healthy and happy at home.
Helping seniors stay healthy and happy from home
Do you need some new ways to help a senior in your life feel connected? Try these tips to keep them healthy and happy.
Move around the house
Regular light exercise has many benefits and you can do it from your home. Moving often can help improve energy levels, put you in a better mood, add more relaxation, and even lead to better sleep.
Take small walks around your house or yard, or try some light exercise routines. Chair yoga and stretches are great options for improving balance and strength.
While it’s great to get moving, be careful not to overexert. Make sure pathways are clear to avoid falls and check that you are performing exercises correctly to avoid injury.
Consult your doctor before trying any new exercise routines. Together, you can come up with a safe plan that fits your physical needs and interests.
Stay connected
Being at home all of the time can get lonely. Luckily, social distancing doesn’t mean we can’t stay connected with friends and loved ones.
Engage with those you care about through phone calls, text messages, or social media. Video calls on your phone or another device can be a great way to see the person you are talking to during a conversation.
Virtual events and activities can help you make new memories with your circle and even meet new friends. Check with your local community events calendar to see what is going on in your neighborhood.
Work your mind
Boosting brain health is just as important as taking care of your body as you age. Working your mind can help reduce cognitive decline and improve your mood.
Find new ways to utilize more of your mind. Puzzles and games are great options for engaging your brain. Getting creative with paints or music can also be extremely beneficial. Don’t be afraid to try something new and expand your interests.
Make time to relax
It’s a stressful time for all of us. Make time to relax and reduce your stress levels during the day.
Meditation or simple relaxation exercises can help put your mind at ease. Taking the time to relax can lower blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen consumption, and stress hormones.
Spending time doing things you enjoy can also help reduce stress. Whether that means connecting with friends virtually or settling down with a good book, making time to relax can help you stay healthy and happy at home.
Limit TV time
We all enjoy a good television show, but too much TV time can be harmful. It all has to do with what your body is doing while you’re watching television.
Sitting for long periods can lead to cardiovascular issues and deteriorate your muscles. Many seniors may develop feelings of isolation from too much time in front of the TV.
Limiting TV time can make room in your day for more engaging activities, such as a walk around the neighborhood or working on a hobby. Be mindful of how much time you spend in front of the TV and know when it’s time to tune out.
Eat healthy meals
Good nutritional habits can help you feel your best and avoid health issues. Pay attention to the food labels of the things you are consuming. You might be surprised by what some common foods reveal on their nutritional information!
A good rule of thumb is the fresher, the better. Focus your sights on fresh fruits and veggies, whole grains, and the right amount of protein. Of course, check with your doctor before changing your diet to make sure you’re doing what’s best for your body.
If you have a hard time shopping for food or preparing meals, a home-delivered meal program may be a good fit. Meals On Wheels of Northeast Ohio provides nutritious, home-delivered meals to seniors with a variety of dietary options.
Create a routine
One way to stay on track with healthy habits is to create a routine. Simply waking up and brushing your teeth at the same time every day can provide a sense of comfort and a building block for the rest of your day.
A routine can help you stay committed to your healthy habits. A daily plan can help you eat better, exercise more, and engage with friends and family. Whether you write it down or simply map it out in your mind, creating a routine can help you stay happy at home.
VANTAGE Aging provides programs that promote positive aging, including home-delivered meals, housekeeping and personal care, volunteering, and job training for older adults. Learn more about our programs or follow us on Facebook for updates.
*The information in this article is intended solely to provide general information on matters of interest for the personal use of the reader, who accepts full responsibility for its use. This article should not be used as a substitute for consultation with professional legal, medical, or other competent advisors.