April 12, 2019 by
Have you ever started your day and figured, “It’s probably going to be one of those days!” Maybe your alarm didn’t go off, the hot water heater decided to quit working, plus the dog chewed up one of your favorite shoes overnight. Then envision if each and every day were “one of those days!” For an individual living with a chronic disease (and that’s the majority of the elderly population), daily struggles and challenges are often a given.
However, there are lots of steps that the elderly can take to realize and maintain a life of joy, even throughout the face of chronic disease. For instance:
- Pursue passions. Finding purpose and meaning in each and every day is essential – and attainable. Many older adults discover fulfillment in helping and encouraging other people. Others thrive on being life-long learners. For many it could mean recording earlier times for the next generation. Brainstorm ideas until you arrive at one that ignites passion, and then make it a real possibility.
- Practice a positive attitude. One great way to create a more positive outlook on life is through journaling. Encourage your elderly family members to start each day by producing a list of everything they’re thankful for that morning, including the seemingly mundane: the smell of fresh coffee brewing, a dog curled up in a sunbeam, a scheduled lunch date with a relative. At the end of every week, sit together and read back through the previous entries for a quick and practical pick-me-up.
- Prevent negativity. Adding in a measure of positivity as mentioned above can naturally bring about less negativity, but there are additional measures that may be followed as well. For instance, permit breaks from tasks that create frustration, providing needed time to de-stress. Put the emphasis on undertaking tasks that may be executed successfully, and discover an alternative solution for those that are too challenging, such as delegating those tasks to another member of the family or a friend, or employing the services of a specialist.
- Get away from the house. Having as active a lifestyle as possible outside of the home is often so refreshing for seniors. Help your elder loved ones go out for hair appointments, shopping adventures, visits with good friends, and other fun outings, as much as they are comfortable. Even simply going outside and relaxing on the front porch when weather allows can substantially boost someone’s frame of mind and outlook.
As the number one rated home care company in Syracuse, NY and the surrounding area, it’s our objective to help older adults attain the best possible quality of life at all times. Our well trained and knowledgeable caregivers provide cheerful companionship, engaging activities, and much more. Reach out to us at (315) 579-HOME (4663) and see the difference our in-home care services can make for your senior loved one!