Seniors and family caregivers benefit from prioritizing mental and physical health and wellbeing during the pandemic.
While we can certainly begin to see the light at the end of the tunnel, the COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on our mental and physical health and wellbeing. Months of isolation and physical separation from people we love has taken a toll on many seniors and the people they love.
Now is an ideal time for older adults and family caregivers alike to devote time and focus to rebuilding health and wellness. Our senior care team has some suggestions to help you get started.
Establish a Routine
Having an established schedule helps set the tone for the day. No matter what the day’s schedule may be, wake up at a specified time and follow a routine. For example:
- 7 a.m. – Get up and ready for the day
- 8 a.m. – Have a healthy and balanced breakfast
- 9 a.m. – Stretching, meditation/prayer, mindfulness, and exercise
- 10 a.m. – Call or video chat with a family member or friend
- 11 a.m. – Work on a puzzle or other mentally-stimulating activity
- 12 p.m. – Lunch
- Afternoon: An outing, walk, household chores, engagement in an activity or pastime, etc.
- 5 p.m. – Dinner
- 6 p.m. – Wind down for the day by watching a movie, reading, listening to music, or doing some other soothing activity
- 9 p.m. – Get ready for bed
Keep in mind the routine does not have to be rigidly followed; however, it functions as the framework to avoid the urge just to settle into the sofa for the day.
Exercise Daily
Shoot for a minimum of a quarter-hour every day of some kind of physician-approved regular exercise: riding a stationary bike, going for a walk around the neighborhood or on a treadmill, or following along with a recorded exercise program. Integrate some balance and stretching exercises as well to bolster muscles and help protect against falls.
Connect with Others
Even with physical distancing requirements in place, social connection is vital. We know that isolation is very hazardous to an older adult’s health, and it is crucial that socialization be a priority. Safe choices to stay connected include chatting with other people through social networking as well as other online platforms, using virtual meeting software like Skype or Zoom to “visit” with family and friends, and joining online classes, clubs, and support groups. And, an in-home caregiver from Grace Home Care is an excellent way for seniors to safely enjoy companionship with other people. We’re also here to help seniors set up and use the necessary technology to stay connected with family and friends. Email us for details!
Try Something New
Intellectual stimulation initiates creativity and helps maintain cognitive functioning. The choices are limitless! Learn a new language, play word and memory games on the web, pick up a new hobby that you’ve always wanted to try. Reward yourself for the achievements, too!
Take Time to Relax and Unwind
Depression and anxiety are increasing as a consequence of the pandemic, in individuals of all ages. Overcome mental health conditions by getting plenty of sleep, spending time engaging in relaxing activities each day, and getting outdoors as much as possible. Simply relaxing on the porch and listening to the birds can be incredibly calming and uplifting.
Grace Home Care is always available to help raise the overall mental and physical health and wellbeing of older adults along with their family caregivers. Our respite care services let family members take time off from caregiving responsibilities for self-care. Seniors also discover an enhanced quality of life through our full range of home care services. A win-win! Email or call us at 785-286-2273 for a free in-home assessment and to learn more about our top-rated senior care in Topeka, KS.