Movies have been made about grumpy old men, and women are often portrayed as being unhappy during their senior years. Have patience with these individuals, as they are experiencing numerous changes in their lives. Their health may be declining, they can no longer do things they once could, and they have lost loved ones or worry about losing them. Regardless of how hard they try to keep a positive attitude, seniors will probably have days when they are down.
Provide these individuals with encouraging words to lift their spirits. The senior years don’t have to include irritability and depression. Actually, studies show that people tend to be happier as they get older. Everyone has down times, but that doesn’t mean those days need to be regular occurrences. If your loved one is dealing with anxiety, depression, and loneliness, consider moving them to an assisted living community. In the community, they will be surrounded by others in similar situations and have people to talk with when they feel down. How can someone cheer a senior up?
Listen to Them
People need to listen to seniors. They have knowledge and wisdom to share, but often feel as if people don’t want to hear what they have to say. Countless individuals assume seniors are weak, and the media perpetuates this myth. In addition, a person’s perception of seniors may come from others around them. This leads to older individuals feeling as if they are a burden on loved ones or that people no longer see them. By listening to seniors, loved ones make them feel valued and important.
If the senior doesn’t share information willingly, ask questions about their life. They have lived through historical events and have a unique perspective on what happened during these periods. Consider recording these conversations, as one day those loved ones will be gone. The family will enjoy having these memories to listen to when this day comes.
Surround Them with Memories
When a person moves to assisted living in Escondido, CA, they must leave many of their belongings behind. Spend time going through their pictures and mementos to find which items they want to take with them. Being surrounded by familiar things provides them with comfort and reminds them of good times from the past.
Even those struggling with cognitive impairments enjoy looking at photos and mementos. They actually find it easier to remember things from long-term memory than things that happened recently. Take into consideration their level of impairment, as this determines which pictures and mementos will mean the most to them. When they see these items, they get a sense of belonging, and it lifts their mood.
Dance with Them
Seniors often love music. When a song comes on, dance with them to make them happy. Physical contact and music are good for people of all ages. This doesn’t work for everyone, but it is worth a try. If music and dance don’t make them happy, try other things they used to love.
Take Advantage of Games and Puzzles
Many seniors become bored, particularly when they are left alone for hours. They need an activity that satisfies and engages them. At the same time, they are experiencing a decline in their physical and mental abilities. Prolonged disengagement often leads to depression and early death. Family members need to find things that will interest the senior, such as board games or puzzles. They may enjoy cooking in their independent living accommodations or taking up a new craft. Find something that corresponds to their mobility level and other health conditions.
When taking part in these activities, make certain they aren’t too simple for the senior. Don’t insult their intelligence by choosing items suited for very young children. That will offend them and take some joy away from the activity. However, activities that are too hard will leave them frustrated and self-conscious. Try to find a middle ground.
It’s hard to change a person’s personality during their senior years. Accept this and allow them to be who they are. If that is difficult, family members need to change their own attitudes and leave the senior alone. For example, if they like to complain, let them do so. The only time family members should step in is if they believe there is an underlying condition that needs to be addressed. In that case, the family must take action to determine the problem and uplift their spirits once again.
About Cypress Court
Residents of Cypress Court feel like they belong the minute they walk through the doors. Our team loves to serve them and help them live a high quality of life. Plan a visit today to see the amazing things we offer for the seniors in your life.
