Posted on April 26th, 2022

Quality of life is important for health and well-being

It’s not enough to just be alive. Good quality of life is especially important for older adults who are dealing with chronic health conditions and major life changes. Feeling satisfied and fulfilled is just as important for overall well-being as getting regular check-ups from the doctor. In fact, having a positive view of life can help seniors have more energy, less stress, better appetite, and prevent cognitive decline.

We share 5 ways to help older adults improve their quality of life.

1. Treat depression

Depression late in life affects 7 million people aged 65+. It can be caused by stressful life events like retirement or losing a spouse. It could also be caused by a medical disease or medication side effects. To improve quality of life, it’s important to recognize the signs of depression and get help from a doctor, psychologist, therapist, or counselor.

2. Help them feel useful and needed

From the very young to the very old, everyone wants to be useful. When you care for an older adult, do your best to make them feel like you still need their help and that they’re not a burden. Even if they can’t do these tasks efficiently or perfectly, that’s ok. What’s important is that they’re contributing. Ask for help with tasks they can handle, such as:

Folding laundry
Organizing drawers
Opening the mail
Writing grocery or household to-do lists
Clipping coupons
Keeping you up to date on the news
Prepping dinner – for example, trimming vegetables
Going with you to help shop for groceries or run other errands

3. Encourage regular physical activity

Regular physical activity, no matter how gentle, helps keeps both body and mind feeling balanced and positive. Physically, exercise boosts the immune system, lowers blood pressure, improves sleep quality, improves heart health, relieves anxiety, improves strength and stamina, and more.

4. Keep them mentally active

Crossword puzzles, sudoku, other brain games, reading, and writing are all great activities for mental stimulation. Having a sharp and active mind improves overall well-being.

5. Help them stay connected with family, friends, and community

Seniors who are isolated and lonely have shorter lives and are at greater risk for dementia. Prevent that by encouraging and helping your older adult stay connected with their community.

Some suggestions

Arrange for family and friends to visit, eat with, or take them out regularly
Arrange transportation so they can go to senior centers
Encourage them to attend any parties – birthday, graduation, holiday, etc.
Get them involved in a hobby
Encourage them to volunteer with church, community, or charity organizations

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