Emotional Wellness Activities for Seniors in Carroll, IA

According to the National Council on Aging, depression affects over 21 million American adults annually. Disability, social isolation, and chronic illnesses can increase our risk as we age. Adding emotional wellness activities to your routine could benefit your overall mental wellness.

Otherwise, depression could affect your ability to function or compromise your quality of life. Not sure how to improve your emotional health? Read on for tips you can use while living in Carroll, IA.

Aging and Connection

Social isolation and loneliness can increase your risk of developing mental and physical health conditions.According to the CDC, one in three Americans is lonely. One in four reports not having emotional or social support.

Neglecting social connections may compromise your overall wellness. For example, it could increase your risk of:

Type 2 diabetes
A weakened immune system
High blood pressure
Heart disease
Stroke
Anxiety
Obesity
Cognitive decline
Alzheimer's disease and dementia
Depression

Depression can affect the way you think, act, and feel. Many people assume it's a normal part of aging. Others avoid treatment due to the stigma attached to mental health.

Many lifestyle factors associated with aging can increase your risk of depression. For example, developing a chronic health condition or the death of a loved one.

Sometimes, depression is difficult to recognize. Everyone experiences different symptoms. However, common signs of depression include:

Persistent anxiety or sadness
Feeling hopeless or worthless
Decreased energy/fatigue
Difficulty sleeping
Eating more or less than usual
Thoughts of death or suicide
Ignoring important responsibilities
Loss of interest in hobbies
Irritability
Difficulty concentrating

If you experience these symptoms, reach out for help.You can find resources through your senior living community. Otherwise, apply these tips for improving mental wellness in seniors.

Exercise

About 85% of adults aged 65 and older aren't getting enough exercise. The CDC recommends that seniors get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity weekly.Add two strength training workouts and balance exercises to your week.

You can find exercise classes through your senior living community's fitness program. Common classes include:

Swimming
Walking
Water aerobics
Hiking
Pilates
Tai chi
Yoga
Using resistance bands
Lifting weights
Biking
Cycling
Balance exercises
Stretching

Ask friends to join you for workouts. You can hold each other accountable to attend classes regularly.

Exercising can improve your emotional resilience.It boosts serotonin production, which can improve your mood.

Other potential health benefits of exercising include:

Stress relief
Improved balance and coordination
Lower risk of developing dementia
Lower risk of stroke and heart disease
Reduced anxiety and depression symptoms
Lower risk of weight gain
Live independently longer
Improved bone health
Lower blood pressure
Lower risk of eight cancers
Improved sleep quality
Lower risk of type 2 diabetes

Senior Engagement IA

Engaging in hobbies can improve your mood and self-esteem. They may give your life a sense of accomplishment and purpose.

You can find fun hobbies and games through your senior living community's events and activities calendar, including:

Arts and crafts
Dancing
Birdwatching
Woodcarving
Hiking
Swimming
Dancing
Painting and drawing
Sculpting
Knitting, crocheting, and quilting

Use these activities to make new friends. You can discover new hobbies from one another.

Learn New Skills

Learning new skills may enhance your cognitive function.They may stimulate the brain and help create new neural pathways, improving your neuroplasticity. This may benefit your problem-solving skills and memory.

Consider:

Playing an instrument
Learning a new language
Exploring new hobbies
Cooking new dishes

Don't hesitate to ask for help. Learn from the people around you.

Share Meals

Ask your fellow seniors to join you for a meal. You can exchange recipes and cook together before talking over a fresh-cooked meal.

Choose dishes that feature nutritious whole foods, including:

Whole grains
Fruits
Vegetables
Legumes
Nuts and seeds
Healthy fats
Lean proteins and fish
Eggs

Whole foods are high in vitamins and minerals, including antioxidants. Antioxidants fight free radicals, which can contribute to the development of chronic diseases.

Try to minimize your intake of chips, cookies, and other processed foods. These snacks are high in refined carbs and added sugars, which can trigger inflammation.

Otherwise, invite other seniors to join you for dinner in your senior living community's dining room. You can discover delicious, healthy dishes through their dining program.

Mental Wellness Seniors

Maintaining your mental wellness can benefit your overall health. Try:

Seeking treatment if you need it
Eating a healthy, balanced diet
Getting seven to nine hours of sleep
Exercising the body and mind
Taking your medications on time
Sticking to a regular schedule
Staying connected with others
Practicing gratitude

Sticking to a routine can give your life structure. Consider moving into a senior living community. You can enjoy your independence while using their lifestyle programs to develop a customized routine.

Relaxation for Older Adults

Make time to rest and relax. Getting at least seven hours of sleep each night can enhance cognitive functions, including concentration and memory.

Consider adding meditation to your routine. It may help:

Improve focus and attention
Ease stress and anxiety
Improve relationships
You get better sleep
Improve your emotional regulation

Try reading or journaling before bed. Reading can help you relax while stimulating your imagination.

Journaling can help you explore your emotions and thoughts, which may improve your emotional regulation.

Wellness Support Aging

For wellness support, explore activities like:

Pet therapy
Nature walks
Gardening
Music therapy
Puzzles and brain games
Arts and crafts
Cooking and baking

These activities can offer mental stimulation. If you're struggling with Alzheimer's or dementia, consider finding a senior living community that offers memory support. Their services can enhance your daily functioning and quality of life.