The Importance of Emotional Support for Seniors

More and more research is showing that our health is more than just how we feel physically. In fact, how we feel mentally and emotionally has a big impact on our overall health. This is especially true for older adults. Isolation and loneliness can impact a senior’s emotional and mental health, leading to other problems. That’s why, at Essex Meadows we focus on whole-person well-being through our eight dimensions of wellness including intellectual, emotional, social, occupational, spiritual, environmental and health services. This blog post will look at the importance of emotional support for seniors and ways to look after it.

Safeguarding Your Emotional Health

Whether you’re concerned about the emotional wellbeing of a family member or your own, here are seven ways to emotionally care for yourself.

1. Security and safety: Because of lack of mobility, reduced strength and other issues, many seniors may feel anxious about their physical safety. That’s why it’s important to provide a sense of security by ensuring that your surroundings are safe. Regularly check for fall risks such as rugs and other clutter. Make sure doors are locked at night and consider installing a home security system.
2. Connection: Feeling emotionally and physically disconnected from people can negatively impact your health. So it’s important to maintain contact with friends and family. Encourage visits and phone calls from younger family members. Email and social media are also ways to keep in touch. Being invited to weddings, graduations, holiday get-togethers, birthdays, and other family celebrations are also great ways to build and maintain connections.
3. Community: Being active within a community can lead to a happier and more satisfied life. Attending local events and church services, or going on shopping trips are also good ways to stay involved with your neighborhood.
4. Leisure: Aging can impact your ability to do certain cherished leisure activities like reading. But large print books or different glasses can help prevent visual problems. As you notice physical changes that impact mobility or communication, talk with your doctor. They may be able to offer solutions that allow you to continue doing what you love.
5. Planning: Circumstances will change over time and difficulties can impact your physical and emotional health. Watch for any changes and be prepared to involve health care providers.
6. Purpose: As we age and the daily tasks of raising a family or tending to a career start to fade away, we may start to lose our sense of purpose. But it’s important to remember there’s always a purpose in life and new, positive experiences could happen at any time.
7. Autonomy: After being independent your entire adult life, having to rely on others can be a tough transition. A senior living community like Essex Meadows is a great option because they allow you to retain your independence but have care available, if ever needed.

Supporting All Aspects of Your Life

At Essex Meadows, we have a team dedicated to supporting your total well-being, including emotional support for seniors. Our maintenance-free lifestyle will help you live with less stress and more confidence for the future. Plus, our continuum of on-site care means you won’t have to worry about many of life’s what-ifs. We also have a licensed social worker to talk you through challenging changes or transitions. To learn more about everything our community has to offer you, contact us here.