The burden of feeling isolated and lonely is becoming more difficult to bear. Just remember, you are not alone during this isolation period.

8 Ways Seniors Can Improve Their Mental Health During COVID-19

Mental health is a big part of your overall health. As many states begin to relax their COVID-19 restrictions, most senior adults are still being advised that they are safer at home. However, the burden of feeling isolated and lonely is becoming more difficult to bear. Just remember, you are not alone during this isolation period.

The safer at home restriction advises all older adults, especially those with chronic illnesses; they are at a higher risk of becoming critically if acquiring the disease. Although they are not being told they have to stay home, they are being advised it is safer for them to remain at home for now. Seniors who are at the highest risk are those with underlying medical conditions involving those with autoimmune diseases, lung, and heart problems. Here are 8 ways to stay motivated, in great spirits, and increase your overall mental health.

Find an Enjoyable Activity

Whether it is singing, sewing, dancing, or reaching out to others over the phone, find something you enjoy doing every day. Reach out to friends and maybe set up a time to talk every day. Now is the perfect time to work on those projects you have been meaning to do but never had enough time to get around to. Some fun activities include scrapbooking, painting pictures, baking, sewing, and the list goes on. Whatever, you enjoy doing inside, now is the time to do.

Exercise Daily

It is extremely easy to fall into the bad habit of lounging around and not wanting to do anything. This could also be a sign of onset depression. Whatever you do, try to get some exercise in every day. Walking throughout your home, exercising to online videos, or putting a friend on Facetime or Zoom, and exercise together.

Zoom

Zoom is the new way of staying in contact these days. It's a way to talk and interact with several people at the same time. The Zoom app allows you to set up virtual video and audio conferencing. You can also do, live chats, webinars, and screen-sharing. It is just one of the latest communication apps people are using to stay connected during COVID-19.

Eat Healthy

Since more time is being spent at home, it is imperative to eat nutritional meals. Avoid the comfort foods as much as possible to keep the unwanted pounds away. Comfort foods such as pastas, chips, and bread can make the body feel quite sluggish throughout the day. Be sure to include more fruits and vegetables if not following a strict diet by your doctor. Also drink as much water as your body will allow. It is good to keep the impurities flushed out the body. Now is actually the time to learn how to prepare new healthy dishes. Take it a step further and consider creating a blog to show off your new dishes you prepare. It might surprise you at how many people are looking for new ideas for healthy meals.

Relax & Rest

Avoid taking on any added stress in your life. There are people who will love to call and drop all their fears and problems on you. However, this might be the time when you have to be a bit selfish. You are already going through your own ordeal. Rest when you feel it is necessary, and avoid all unwanted phone calls. Turn your ringer off, if it is the only way to keep you from answering the phone. Your body needs its proper rest, or you will become vulnerable to sicknesses. Be sure to let your friends and family know about your relaxation and resting times, so they will not disturb you or worry. Ask that they be considerate of this time, and you will get back in contact after your body gets its proper rest.

Take a News & Social Media Break

Avoid spending a lot of time watching the news about COVID-19. Nothing dampens a spirit faster than hearing a lot of sad stories. If you are one that turns to the news first thing in the morning, what you hear and watch can set your mood and pace for the rest of the day. Give yourself a break during the week from the news. Turn some music on in the mornings to avoid listening to the sad things going on in the world today; it will only cause you to stress and worry. Instead, take time to watch a movie you have been wanting to see. Or call family and friends and time talking and catching up with what is going on in their lives.

Practice Breathing/Meditation Techniques

Although breathing and meditation techniques are quite effective in reducing stress, it is often overlooked. Breathing exercises are known to help improve problems with depression and anxiety. The exercises can also have a big effect on the state of mind and can help improve your overall way and thinking and how your body feels. There is nothing more relaxing than closing your eyes and taking deep breaths in and out. There are several breathing techniques that can be found online. Find the one that works best for your and implement it in your daily exercising activities.

Make an Appointment with Therapist

If you feel the need to talk to someone and discuss your mental health. Make an appointment with a mental health therapist. There are many people who are having to use a therapist for the first time during these unprecedented times. Some people are finding that they need to call on one a bit more than usual. Most mental health care providers are now using Telehealth. Telehealth allows patients to have their appointments in the convenience of their own home while talking with the provider online. Most health insurances will charge you just like it is an in office visit. Be sure to check with the provider to make sure they are using Telehealth and your insurance will cover the appointment. To find out more ideas on how to improve your mental health during COVID-19, visit us.


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