5 Ways Older Adults Can Reduce Stress

When our body senses danger, our brain immediately sends signals to the muscles and these get tightened. At the same time, adrenal glands start to release stress hormones. Adrenaline and cortisol are known as stress hormones that quicken our breathing, improve stamina, increase strength and enhance focus. This is a reaction commonly known as the stress response.

Now, as people get older, their ability to manage stress often reduces. This evokes problems like lowered immunity system, heart problems vision and hearing ability loss, digestive issues, and dental issues.

Nevertheless, there are some tried and tested ways that older adults can reduce stress. The professionals at the long-term care homes in Saskatoon recommend some tips to help them manage and reduce stress. We will elaborate on these below.

1. Regular exercise and a healthy diet

Stress is often connected with wellness. The first step is to maintain a healthy body. For that, you can exercise regularly and eat a balanced diet. Seniors are often disturbed with health issues that impact their psyche and make them scrupulous. If they maintain a healthy physique, lots of their problems will automatically get reduced. They will be able to enjoy life freely which is key to reducing stress.

2. Involvement in community events

One of the major issues that old people feel is loneliness. As they lose acquaintances and children grow up, they feel less valued. In such a time, people need companionship. Being involved in various community events will keep them occupied. That way, they won’t have much time to worry about lots of things and become stressed.

3. Volunteer for a cause

If you are not involved in any job, you can stand up for a cause that you have always believed in. It will keep you occupied. This is an extension of the point we mentioned above. If you don’t have many friends or community around you, find a cause. Start volunteering and you can find lots of people like you are there. You can feel connected with them and build a sense of belonging. This is extremely crucial for a healthy and stress-free life.

4. Learn relaxation techniques and meditation

Meditation is very helpful for coping up with stress. You can join a meditation center to get inspired by others. There are several free therapies available on YouTube. You can check those out and try relaxation techniques. However, we recommend you not to pop any pill to feel relaxed without a doctor’s prescription. This may create an adverse impact.

5. Focus on things that you can control

One of the most severe feelings an old person feels is losing control. Old age is a tough time to learn new skills. Therefore, instead of learning new things, cherish the things that you already have. For instance, if you are great at painting, stick to it instead of trying your hands on writing poetry.

Following these tips will help the seniors to reduce stress. We hope you have found the article useful. Feel free to share with your acquaintance.