Senior goals for mental health should be realistic and focus on improving their overall well-being. Mental health goals aimed at purpose-driven aging, such as practicing active gratitude and exercising on a regular basis, can contribute to a fulfilling lifestyle in their golden years.
The World Health Organization reports that approximately 14.1% of adults over the age of 70 live with some sort of mental disorder. That is around one-sixth of the senior population that suffers from mental afflictions that can cause very real physical symptoms.
Setting goals for mental health is a healthy tactic for those who may not know how to start when managing a mental disorder. In this article, we will explore some of the key pillars of mental health for seniors in Abilene, TX, and where you can begin when setting mental health goals.
While mental health may seem like a simple concept, that assertion could not be further from the truth. The four pillars of mental health are:
Together, these four pillars contribute to a balanced mental state. It is crucial to ensure all four are in check when accomplishing your mental health goals.
Whether you want to combat an existing mental health issue or you have a new diagnosis, creating mental health goals is vital to make tangible progress. Here are some goals to consider as you begin your journey.
Every time you experience gratitude, make a mental note and fully embrace the moment. It may be beneficial to keep a gratitude journal, which you can write in to start or end your day.
A therapist often has the specialized training to help address triggers and find healthy coping techniques. Your therapist might ask you about your mental health history and use it to create a treatment plan.
It may benefit you to find a doctor with training and experience in senior issues. They may be able to recommend resources to cope with the stress of moving to a new senior community or navigating grief from losing a spouse.
There are many tangible benefits to getting outside, including a boost in your mental health and replenishing your vitamin D levels. Abilene has mild weather year-round, so the outdoors are accessible for seniors in every season.
Find hiking trails in your area that are equipped with accessible walking paths, or spend the day exploring a local park. Visit museums and other attractions that may offer senior discounts, or just simply soak up the sun in your senior living community.
One of the major benefits of residing in an assisted living community is the opportunity to forge new friendships. Socialization is easier than ever, with plenty of activities offered every day and naturally social settings that encourage conversation and connection.
A regular workout regimen can do wonders for your mental health. It produces endorphins, known as the "runner's high," which gives you a boost of energy following your workout. It can also help regulate your circadian rhythm, meaning you will fall asleep and stay asleep much more easily, as well as experience less tiredness throughout the day.
Despite huge strides in mental health awareness in the past few decades, there is still a very real stigma that surrounds the need for medication intervention for mental health problems.
Ultimately, it is up to you to decide if you need further intervention when holistic methods are not working. Consider making an appointment with a psychiatrist, who will then evaluate you and determine if medication is the right choice.
Some of the most common types of mental health medications include:
Seniors face unique mental health challenges due to factors such as transitions into senior care or losing a loved one. Therefore, it can be even more difficult for older folks to navigate mental health disorders and find the resources needed to combat them effectively.
While moving to an assisted living community may present numerous benefits, the major change can cause strong emotions, such as anxiety and depression.
Seniors with existing mental health conditions may experience flare-ups or temporary upticks in symptoms during this period.
Additionally, many seniors face complex grief from important losses that occur later in life. Losing a spouse after many decades or a childhood best friend can cause immense pain and lead to increased feelings of depression and malaise.
Assisted living communities such as Morada Abilene help senior residents thrive. Our community offers endless opportunities for social engagement for seniors, as well as plenty of activities designed to boost mental health and physical wellness.
Seniors who may have experienced overwhelm from living on their own may find relief when entering assisted living. Staff members are readily available to help with everyday tasks, and streamlined floor plans allow for easy navigation.
As you age, you should still maintain goals for mental health that align with your current needs. Use this guide to cultivate senior mental health goals that improve all areas of your life and cultivate emotional wellness in assisted living.
At Morada Abilene, we are proud to offer activity-based support that focuses on enhancing the quality of life of our residents. With amenities such as chef-prepared dining and exclusive exercise programs tailored to seniors, our community is ready to help you achieve the retirement lifestyle of your dreams.
Are you interested in learning more about the services that Morada Abilene has to offer? Reach out to us today with any questions that you may have, or visit our beautiful campus in Abilene, TX, to see it in person. We can't wait to hear from you!