Taking care of yourself is integral to the journey to independent living. This can include activities that foster physical and emotional wellness, like exercise, social interaction, and spiritual or religious practice.
While many view self-care as a selfish indulgence, it’s essential for maintaining health and happiness. Here are some reasons why.
Exercise
Physical self-care, such as getting enough exercise and eating well, is essential for maintaining health as you age. It provides a boost of energy, reduces stress, and helps to manage weight. Additionally, it enhances balance and coordination while fortifying bones and muscles.
Compared to other chores, exercising can be a pleasurable way to pass the time and may not feel like work. For example, walking barefoot in the grass or listening to an audiobook while taking in your surroundings can be a refreshing, rejuvenating, and relaxing experience that doesn’t feel like exercise.
Many independent living communities offer onsite fitness centers and group exercise classes for seniors, a safe and convenient place to meet up with friends and neighbors and get regular physical activity. This movement can help alleviate joint pain, reduce anxiety, and keep the brain sharp. It can also encourage social interaction, a key component of spiritual self-care.
Eat Well
Many older adults have spent their lives caring for others, including young children and aging parents. They may risk becoming lonely and isolated when this time comes to a close. One of the best ways to combat loneliness is to engage in self-care activities that refuel their mind, body, and spirit.
Eating well is a fundamental component of self-care. Maintaining a healthy weight, increasing energy, enhancing brain and organ function, fortifying the immune system, and managing chronic illnesses can all be achieved with a balanced diet.
For many seniors on a budget, making nutritious meals at home can be challenging. This is particularly true for seniors who live alone, as going to the grocery store might be intimidating. However, in independent senior living communities like Westminster St. Augustine, residents can enjoy dining opportunities with wholesome food choices and various menu options. Eating well is also more enjoyable when enjoyed in a social setting.
Get Enough Sleep
Sustaining mental and physical well-being requires getting adequate sleep. Sleeping well is also crucial for a caregiver’s well-being, giving them the energy to be their best for others. Similar to the guidance we get when traveling by air: Put on your oxygen mask before helping someone else; you can’t take care of your loved ones until you take care of yourself.
Caregivers who get enough sleep can handle stress, problem-solve, and make wise decisions, even during difficult situations. Sleep also allows caregivers to be emotionally present for their loved ones, ensuring they can enjoy their time together.
Encourage your independent living community residents to set regular bedtimes and wake-up times, stay active throughout the day (avoid naps, especially), keep electronic stimulation to a minimum before sleep, use blackout curtains to limit light, and have a comfortable sleeping environment. They should avoid consuming large meals or alcohol before bedtime and be sure their medications are not inhibiting sleep.
Stay Connected
Caregivers often struggle to balance their own lives with the needs of their loved ones. Making time for self-care can improve general well-being, reduce stress, and fend off anxiety and despair. Maintaining social connections is as essential to self-care as getting enough sleep and eating healthfully.
Research has shown that a strong network of friends and family can ease anxiety, boost happiness, and increase overall wellness. Seniors need to maintain these connections to avoid feeling lonely or isolated.
Seniors can stay connected by participating in group activities focusing on their interests. For example, some independent living communities have art classes, yoga sessions, and other activities that encourage social interaction among residents. They can also use online tools to connect with family and friends when a physical visit isn’t possible. Many retirement homes let residents join groups like this before they move in to get acquainted with their new neighbors immediately.
