Stress is part of life for all of us, but for seniors it can have a bigger impact on physical and mental well-being.
Worries and concerns are normal, and as we get older it becomes even more important to build simple stress-reduction habits that are easy to use in daily life. Meditation, deep breathing, movement, and other strategies can help seniors maintain their quality of life and support overall well-being.
Stress destroys cells in the hippocampus, a brain site responsible for memory storage and retrieval.
Why is it critical to manage stress?
Research links stress with both mental and physical health concerns, including anxiety, depression, high blood pressure (hypertension), and changes in immune function. Long-term stress can also worsen existing conditions, which may be especially challenging when the immune system is less efficient.
What can seniors do to manage their stress in a positive way?
Finding small moments of joy can help, and activities that feel meaningful can make stressful periods easier to handle. The skills seniors use to manage stress today can help them feel more prepared for future stress.
Stress Relief Techniques
Call a friend or family member, or set up a video chat
Try a short meditation at the same time each day, or when stress starts to rise
Practise deep breathing and mindfulness exercises
Plan regular social time, such as a walk with a neighbour or a community group
Stay active and eat well, with your health-care provider’s approval
Journal at the end of the day
Notice one or two good moments from the day
Volunteer in the community (in person or virtually)
Make a simple to-do list and check off tasks as you go
Try gentle yoga or stretching, with your health-care provider’s approval
Listen to calming music, especially before bed
Watch or listen to something that makes you laugh
Comfort Keepers Can Help
At Comfort Keepers, we support seniors in maintaining their peace, happiness, and joy at home. Our approach to care is called Interactive Caregiving™, a philosophy centred on four pillars: mind, body, nutrition, and safety.
Our caregivers are selected with one quality in mind: empathy. Empathetic care begins in the heart; it helps us understand each client’s needs and provide support that feels personal.
Learn more about our services by contacting Comfort Keepers today.
References
Healthline. “16 Simple Ways to Relieve Stress and Anxiety.” Web. 2018.
Huffington Post. “10 Health Benefits of Relaxation” by Sarah Klein. Web. 2014.
American Institute of Stress. “Improve Memory, Concentration, Productivity, and Health by Reducing Stress.” Web. 2018.
WebMD. “10 Relaxation Techniques That Zap Stress Fast.” Web. 2018.
