It’s no secret that caring for ourselves is a crucial part of our well-being. Whether we’re focusing on our mental health, physical health, emotional health or spiritual health, these aspects all join together to ensure we’re healthy, happy and independent. As seniors age, this becomes more important than ever.
“Good health isn’t solely about nutrition and exercise, though many people think that’s the case,” says Devon Sicard, Executive Director at Waterstone at Wellesley, an independent living and assisted living community located in Wellesley, MA.
“In fact, many seniors in past years haven’t focused as heavily on self-care, opting instead for increasing their physical activity and enhancing their nutrition. While that’s certainly beneficial and a great place to start, there’s much more to it than that. Fortunately, among those who are rising to retirement age and considering a senior living community like Waterstone at Wellesley, we’re finding that self-care is a trend that’s increasing in popularity.”
This shift in focus paves the way for older adults to define their retirement, hone in on their health, and enhance senior care – even in ways they may have never thought possible before.
The Importance of Self-Care for Seniors
Why should you add self-care into your everyday care routine? To continue inspiring change and to propel the momentum of self-care among older adults, we’re breaking down the top reasons that it’s crucial for senior health.
It Lessens the Risk of Anxiety and Depression.
Self-care is often used as a tool to manage stressors while helping seniors maintain a sense of control. This has been found effective in:
- Reducing stress
- Increasing energy
- Boosting mood
- Enhancing happiness
- Improving connection
Self-Care Decreases Likelihood of Health Problems.
As if a reduction in stress, a boost of mood and enhanced energy weren’t enough, self-care may help lessen the chances of heart disease, stroke and even cancer.
It Helps Maintain Independence.
Perhaps the most important aspect of all: Self-care helps seniors maintain independence by helping to improve functional health. Everyone has a desire to preserve autonomy in their later years, especially as health needs begin to arise. By taking steps to enhance self-care, you are also taking steps to improve overall health and well-being, allowing for greater independence.
Shifting the Focus on Self-Care
For someone who may not have taken much time to ensure they were caring for themselves throughout the years, they might not know where to start. The good news is that the answer lies in our personal interests. Consider some of the ways older adults can enhance their self-care:
Create a Personal Schedule.
Routines can go a long way in ensuring you keep up with your self-care goals. Try to get up at the same time daily, eat a healthy and nutritious diet, exercise, and socialize with others. Then add in any of your other lifestyle goals, whether that may be to read, paint more, or even learn a new skill.
Try Mindful Exercises.
Yoga, tai chi, meditation, and Pilates are popular among seniors. This is because they are typically low impact yet enhance balance, clear the mind, and bring joy afterward.
Spend Time with Friends and Family.
Sometimes a little connection is all we need. While this may not seem like outright self-care, connecting with others and forming connections is a great way to enhance joy and health.
Consider Journaling.
If you once had a passion for writing, now is a good time to pick it back up again! Make a list of all the things you’re thankful for, chart out all the positive things of the day, or simply reflect on what worked for you and what didn’t after each day. It’s the perfect way to increase self-awareness and adjust your mindset for the future.
Participate in Activities That Cover All Levels of Wellness.
Though many spend time fostering their emotional, physical, social and intellectual health, it’s also important to manage environmental, financial, occupational and spiritual health. In addition to engaging with others, exercising, and seeking creative opportunities, you could:
- Enhance your environment by gardening
- Manage your financial resources for retirement
- Start a hobby you love or share your talents
- Find additional meaning through spiritual wellness
Waterstone at Wellesley: Providing the Self-Care Tools You Need to Live Well
Waterstone at Wellesley makes it simple for older adults to improve their health and wellness. Take a stroll alongside the Charles River that runs behind our community. Try a personal training session led by professional instructors. Go for a hole-in-one with friends on the putting green in our courtyard. Join an aquatics class in the indoor heated pool.
With specially designed wellness programs, personalized care services, dynamic social, cultural and educational events, and a carefree lifestyle, residents of Waterstone at Wellesley are surrounded by everything they need to live well.
NOW THIS IS HOME.
Located along the banks of the Charles River, Waterstone at Wellesley offers premier independent living and enriching assisted living. With luxurious amenities, gourmet dining and concierge-style services, Waterstone provides a senior living experience beyond expectations. To schedule your personal visit, contact us at 781.591.7113.