We often look for ways to enhance the quality of our lives as humans, but what about our senior relatives? It can be difficult for them to make small changes, especially on their own. Therefore, you need to be the one to help them enjoy their life the best ways possible.
Here are five ways you can improve the quality of their life.
Frequent Social Interaction
Regular social interaction is important for people of any age. Seniors may feel isolated and can get a case of “cabin fever” if they are stuck at home with no company. You and other family members should call and visit them regularly. Encourage your senior relative to stay in contact with their friends, as well. You can help them create weekly meetings so they can catch up and hang out. A simple conversation can create a positive impact on the quality of their life, so they must be continually socializing.
Companionship
While it is recommended you spend time with your senior relative, we know you cannot be there for them all the time. Therefore, you may benefit from getting a companion care service in your area. Being lonely can make a senior feel several things, like depression, and you may not be available to help them around the house. An in-home companion can make sure that your senior stays safe, happy, and healthy while you are not around.
Physical Activity
As we age, we may feel like it is hard to stay active. However, it is important for us to exercise to stay fit and healthy. Plus, regular physical activity has many benefits, including heart disease and stroke prevention.
You do not have to make them sit on a stationary bike for 30 minutes. It can also keep them mentally fit and increase their dopamine levels. There are tons of enjoyable ways your seniors can engage in exercise, such as yoga, Zumba classes, and walking through the park for 30 minutes, among others.
Mentally Engaging Activities
While you need to focus on their physical health, you cannot overlook your senior’s mental health. It is easy for the mind to deteriorate when it is not stimulated, so encourage your senior loved one to do more than watch TV.
Get them fun puzzles, such as Sudoku, word games, and jigsaw puzzles. You can also give them interesting books to read to keep their mind alert. To take it up a notch, you can make it a group activity. For instance, they can join a book reading club so it will encourage them to stimulate their brain and share their opinions.
Set Goals
Most seniors are retired, and that can make them feel like they have no purpose. Set small, daily goals for them to reach. For instance, you can encourage them to walk for 30 minutes a day or finish a complicated puzzle. Small goals like these can help them look forward to each day and feel more accomplished.
Our senior loved ones, be it your parents or grandparents, made sure that we had a good life, so it is our turn to take care of them. Look for options that will suit them best to help them spend their golden years comfortably.
