Taking care of yourself is always important. But self-care becomes even more important you as you age. Self-care involves not only taking the time to do things that you enjoy but also taking charge of your health and wellbeing. Here are some things to help promote self-care for seniors.
Sleep Well
The elderly tend to go to bed earlier and get up earlier than they did in their younger years. The amount of sleep needed doesn’t change, though. Seniors benefit from getting 7 to 9 hours of sleep every night like every adult. Medication, illness, or pain can prevent good quality sleep. If this is the case, speak to your doctor.
Talk to Your Doctor
Preparing to speak to your doctor before an appointment will help address specific issues. This includes writing down concerns beforehand and taking a notebook in to write down what the doctor recommends. Bring a friend, senior caregiver or relative along to assist with taking notes and to provide information that might help the doctor. Don’t forget to bring a current list of every medication, supplement, and over-the-counter drug you’re taking as well.
Build an Exercise Practice
Building an exercise practice is crucial to self-care. Determine what your goal is such as achieving better balance or improving your strength. Then find exercises that suit your ability level and adapt them as necessary to stay safe at home.
Get Creative
Creative activities engage the mind and feed the soul. Dedicate a certain amount of time to a creative pursuit like painting, gardening, building something, or writing.
Meditate
Meditation is one way to help relieve stress and increase mindfulness. Sitting quietly might seem silly at first. But give it a try and spend a few minutes simply resting your mind. It will help relief thinking about daily concerns.
Chat with a Friend or Companion
Chatting with a friend or companion about an interesting or trending topic is another way to engage your brain and break out of your daily routine while providing care and companionship. Discuss anything from recent books you’ve read to new projects or foods you want to try.
If you’re looking for someone to help promote self-care routines or have an elderly person in your life in need of living assistance home care in McKinney, Texas, talk to Senior Helpers. Our skilled care team will be happy to find a caregiver to meet your needs.