Stress is defined as how the body responds to a situation that requires it to take action. So, basically, when it comes to your elderly loved one, it is the way they respond to threatening or challenging situations or conditions.
There are also many causes of stress that are known as stressors. Some stressors might include environmental impacts, people, news, and much more.
If you are taking care of your elderly loved one, it is important to share some stress management tips with them. Then, you and in-home care providers can work on these tips with them.
Journaling
One of the stress management tips that is helpful for senior citizens is journaling. There are many different types of journals out there that you could get for your elderly loved one. However, your elderly loved one doesn’t have to use a journal. They can use a basic notebook to write in if they choose to do so. Anything that allows them to write down their thoughts and feelings can be beneficial.
Talking to a Friend or Companion
If your elderly loved one is stressed out, they may need to talk to a friend, family member, or companion. You can even hire in-home care providers to talk to your elderly loved one. Everyone needs someone who will listen to and communicate with them. This goes the same for senior citizens.
Taking Deep Breaths or Meditating
Two other things that can help your elderly loved one to relief their stress is taking deep breaths and/or meditating. Studies have shown that when people stop to take deep breaths it lowers their heart rate, helps relieve physical tension in their body, and helps to relieve stress. If your elderly loved one does well with taking deep breaths, they may want to try meditating, as well. Meditation can help them to get out of their head, process tough feelings, and get into a better mood, as well.
Exercising
Studies also show that exercising can be truly beneficial for senior citizens who need to relieve their stress. In these studies, senior citizens who did light to moderate exercise felt less stress within 10 to 15 minutes. If your elderly loved one can exercise, but they need someone to monitor them while they do so, you can hire in-home care providers. These senior care providers can keep an eye on your elderly loved one’s safety during all their exercise sessions.
Conclusion
Stress hits everyone in numerous ways. However, no matter what the situation may be, it is good to relieve stress as much as possible. When it comes to senior citizens, you might find that your elderly loved one gets stressed often. If this is happening, it is crucial that either you, other family members, or an in-home care provider share these stress management tips with them. Once you do this, hopefully, your elderly loved one will be much less stress and worked up.
If you or a loved one are looking for experienced In-Home Care in Arlington, VA, contact SenCura at 703-880-2547. Providing in-home senior care in Northern Virginia.
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