Cognitive decline, memory problems, and an increasing loneliness epidemic make 40.3 million U.S seniors vulnerable to various mental health issues. It’s suggested that 20% of seniors will experience some kind of mental health concern during their golden years, so if you have recently retired and have noticed a decline in your emotional wellbeing, here are some key tips that can improve cognitive function and keep your spirits up during these unprecedented times.
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Play Mind Games
As you get older, your brain needs to stay stimulated to remain sharp and alert. There are many mind games you can play that can enhance your thinking skills, such as improving reaction time, processing speed, and boosting short-term memory. Crosswords, puzzles, and scrabble are all great mind games that can give you something to focus on and help improve your mental state.
Widen Your Social Circle
If you’re a senior who lives on their own, the COVID-19 pandemic may be having a catastrophic impact on your mental wellbeing. Without being able to connect with loved ones in person, you may have become withdrawn from society and stayed indoors. Thanks to technology, you can engage with friends virtually which can be a great way to keep your spirits up. You may find that you’re unhappy being alone and wish to look into facilities like npseniorliving.com that provide independent living, allowing you to widen your social circle while having your own space.
Get Physical
There is nothing more beneficial for your mental wellbeing than exercise. If you’re not as mobile as you used to be, that’s not to say you can’t reap the benefits from physical activity. Whether you enjoy going for a walk around the neighborhood, going for a swim, or performing exercises from home, make sure you find an activity that gets your heart pumping, as this can release endorphins in the brain and help you feel happier.
Find a New Hobby
Without a full-time job to go to, many seniors have more time on their hands than before. If you’re stuck on how to make the most of your days, finding a new hobby can boost cognitive function and give you something to look forward to. There are tons of creative hobbies you can try out, such as knitting, visual art, and gardening. If you want to engage with other seniors, joining a community group may be worth looking into.
Volunteer
Some seniors feel they don’t have a place in society anymore. If you’ve given up work but you’re not quite ready to take a step back, you may benefit from volunteering in your local community. There is no shortage of organizations in need of help either, meaning you will gain a great sense of accomplishment by offering your services, which in turn will boost your mental health and wellbeing.
It’s extremely important for seniors to prioritize their mental health and wellbeing. If you’re not in the right frame of mind, you’re more susceptible to physical conditions and ailments that can hinder your quality of life. No matter what interests you have, any of the tips above can be a great benefit to your life.
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