Active participation in the life, via physical, mental, and social activities, is a critical ingredient for successful aging and life satisfaction, according to researchers at the York University of Toronto. Studies show older adults who engage in activities that they consider meaningful -- like volunteering in their communities or being physically active -- report feeling happier and healthier. A 2011 Gallup survey found seniors who spent hours each day being social were happier, enjoyed their lives, and were less stressed or anxious.
Enjoyment of life and overall happiness are pertinent predictors of mobility and future disability among older adults. Everyone should aim for the best possible life, and seniors have the unique ability to demonstrate to others how to achieve happiness during the aging process. Keep reading for seven secrets for happiness during your older years that you can either give to your older loved ones or remember yourself.
Seniors living alone may also benefit from the companionship of a compassionate professional caregiver. Building a strong network of family, friends, and health care providers can help seniors age happily. Older adults may benefit from spending time with people of all ages, who can remind them of what it means to have Zs in their lives.
That is good news, for sure, but some older adults need a reminder about what they can do to remain positive and happy in their old age. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways seniors can find a sense of purpose that will help them stay happier later on in life. Finding a sense of purpose may help promote happiness in your later years, as it is usually the period of time that older adults have the most time to fill.
There is not one way to find and keep a sense of purpose, since every individual will find different activities and aspects of life meaningful. Everyone has different ways to experience meaning and pleasure, and what activities you find enjoyable can change over time. If you find that you are spending a lot of time alone, try engaging in activities you find meaningful--those that give you a sense of purpose in your everyday life. If your career slows down or you retire, or your children move out, you might find yourself with more time to enjoy activities beyond work and your immediate family.
Participating in socially and productively fulfilling activities that you enjoy, like taking an art class, joining a hiking club, or volunteering in your community can help maintain your wellbeing and independence as you age. Learning new activities not only adds to the meaning and enjoyment of life, but it can also help maintain your brain health and prevent mental decline. Exercise, keeping your brain active, and maintaining creativity actually may help to prevent cognitive decline and memory problems.
Brain training and learning new skills can be done at any age, and there are plenty of things you can do to keep your memory sharp. You might not be able to play hockey or do gymnastics when you are 70, but you might take up a new activity, such as swimming or biking, which provides similar physical and social benefits. Learn how to adapt to change, and healthy aging also means finding new things you enjoy, staying physically and socially active, and feeling connected with your community and loved ones.
Exercise increases the release of dopamine and endorphins, helping seniors keep their sense of well-being and other benefits throughout their age. By focusing on hobbies and activities that provide a sense of accomplishment, seniors can improve their daily happiness and well-being.
You can help motivate one another, and not only benefit from the physical activity, you also get social interaction. Your loved one may also want to bring along a friend, making time outside more helpful for their well-being. You may want to try an activity together with your loved one back at home to help her take in some good memories about life.
This is an excellent opportunity for your older loved ones to feel cared about and taken care of, and also for them to socialize and engage in another kind of setting. If your elderly loved one is an animal lover, spending time with pets and other animals can be a very appealing activity for them.
There are countless ideas out there, catering to all kinds of physical abilities and mental capabilities, so you may want to get your elderly loved one involved as much as possible. Check out this list of 10 inspiring activities, and use these as you see fit to help your elderly loved one get more involved with his or her life. Finding ways to stay happy regardless of what life throws at you can help you get through every single day.
Want more information about keeping your activity going without worrying about your health and safety? Reach out to us and learn about KAREWatch™ MG Medical Alert Smartwatch, your partner in senior living. Contact us at KAREWatch.com, or call us at 855 932 KARE for more information.
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