Aging Gracefully

Home care has become an important and vital topic for discussion among families searching for the best way for their parents to age gracefully in the comforts of their own homes. Living at home is sometimes the best answer for seniors to thrive and retain memories that have developed over a lifetime. Aging gracefully requires effort to keep the mind, body, and spirit intact through old age.

Here are some tips and ideas to help seniors age gracefully and retain their cognitive and physical health to allow for living as long as possible in their home environment.

Mind Exercises

Exercising the mind is just as critical to your health as physical exercise and is sometimes overlooked in an individual’s wellness plan. Keeping the brain alert and agile can be achieved by performing crossword puzzles, staying up to date on current events, and reading both fiction and nonfiction. Enrolling in educational courses both online and in classroom studies is a fantastic way to increase those brain reserves, as is socializing with other people.

Physical Exercise

The key benefits of physical exercise should surprise no one. It is releases chemicals to stimulate growth of new brain cells and blood vessels and also helps maintain physical health and prevent major health concerns. Keeping agile and strong has been shown to prevent osteoporosis, stabilize blood pressure, and lower the risks of Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, obesity and many other health risks.

It’s never to late to start an exercise program, even with disabilities. Chairbound individuals can lift weights and perform stretching exercises, chair aerobics, and even chair yoga. Personal trainers can be a great way to get started. They can be available through a local gym, community center, or online. A personal trainer can set up a plan and gradually add intensity and duration that is suitable to the individual.

Spirituality

Aging gracefully includes having to deal with the loss of loved ones and diminished physical and mental function. Having a place of spiritual meditation can help to process those griefs and losses and can include a church, synagogue, or a quiet personal space at home. These places can be useful to reflect on someone’s purpose in life or a new role when they are no longer income earners for their family.

If meditation and being reflective on one’s life is new, it can be learned and developed through the teachings of many spiritual advisors, mentors and teachers. A local church or community center may provide a list of resources available. Spiritual retreats are also a great way to reconnect with one’s self and a good start on a spiritual journey.

Summary

Living a life feeling good and doing the best for one’s self is the best way to age gracefully and extend our lives for as long as we can.