Living with a chronic illness or disease can present daily struggles and challenges for many, especially seniors. From the time you wake up, it may seem like everything is not going correctly for you, your alarm did not go off, the hot water heater is not working, your cat or dog has decided to chew your favorite shoe. With those dealing with a chronic illness, those kinds of days become more normal. It is important to recognize and understand the difficulties our loved ones can face on a daily basis.
There are several steps that our loved ones can take to help find and maintain a joyful life, even when dealing with a chronic illness or pain. For example, staying physically active low-impact exercises like walking or swimming can help manage pain and help to improve your overall well-being.
- Follow passions: Finding your purpose and meaning for each day is essential. For many seniors finding satisfaction in helping and encouraging others, where some enjoy being lifelong learners. Others may find purpose in making a recording of the past for the next generation. Brainstorming different ideas until you find the right one that ignites your passions.
- Practice a positive attitude: Having a journal is a nice way to cultivate a positive outlook on life. By encouraging your loved ones to begin each day with writing down what they are grateful for, even the small things like the smell of a cup of coffee, or fresh baked cookies. Then, at the end of each day, take the time and go back and reread some of the things you have written for a quick and practical mood booster.
- Refrain from negativity: In addition to practicing positivity, taking breaks from takes or activities that can become irritating can help reduce negativity. It is important to prioritize tasks that can be completed successfully and try to find alternatives for the activities that can be at times becoming challenging. Such as delegating them to others or asking for professional help.
- Leave the house: It is helpful for seniors to try and maintain an active lifestyle outside of their homes. By encouraging your elderly loved ones to participate in activities such as hair appointments, going on shopping trips and visiting family. Even spending time on the front porch can have a positive impact on their mental well-being.
At Amy’s Helping Hands we are the leaders in Windsor and Essex for in-home care services. Our dedicated team of professionally trained and experienced caregivers are here to ensure that older adults can enjoy the highest quality of life possible. We offer a range of service companionship, engaging in activities, transportation and much more. Please do not hesitate to contact us online or at 519-915-4370 to learn how we can help support your loved ones.
