Emotional Wellness Activities for Seniors in North Port, FL

According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, about 20% of people aged 55 and older experience some mental health concern. Chronic illnesses, disability, and social isolation can increase the risk of depression as we age. A mental health condition may affect your ability to function normally.

Adding emotional wellness activities to your routine may improve your health and overall well-being. Not sure where to start? Read on to discover enrichment activities while aging in North Port, FL!

Aging and Well-Being

According to the National Council on Aging, about 21 million US adults struggle with depression. Symptoms in older adults include:

Trouble concentrating
Cognitive changes
Trouble sleeping/oversleeping
Fatigue
Persistent sadness
Apathy
Loss of interest in activities
A sense of hopelessness
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Irritability
Changes in appetite
Digestive problems
Slower movement or speech

If you experience these symptoms, consult a doctor. Depression is more difficult to diagnose and detect in older adults.

Older adults have a higher risk of developing depression. However, many don't seek treatment due to mental health stigma. Neglecting to seek treatment can affect your quality of life.

Prioritizing your physical health may help improve mental health for seniors.Here are a few lifestyle changes that may improve your health.

Exercise

Regular exercise can stimulate endorphin and serotonin production. These neurotransmitters can boost your mood and emotional resilience.

Try engaging in two muscle-strengthening sessions and 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity.Check your senior living community's fitness program for classes. These exercises can include:

Water aerobics
Hiking
Lifting weights
Training with resistance bands
Yoga
Pilates
Tai chi
Swimming
Walking

Aerobic exercises can help reduce anxiety and depression. These activities may ease stress and improve a negative mood. Exercising could boost your cognitive function and self-esteem.

Potential health benefits of getting regular exercise include:

Reduced risk of depression
Reduced risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease
Improved sleep quality
Lower risk of stroke and heart disease
Improved bone health
Improved coordination and balance
Improved immune function
Lower blood pressure
Reduced risk of weight gain
Lower risk of eight cancers
Lower risk of type 2 diabetes
Reduced feelings of anxiety

Eat Nutritious Foods

About one in four older Americans has poor nutrition. Prioritize eating nutrient-dense foods, including:

Low-fat dairy
Lean proteins
Vegetables and fruits
Nuts and seeds
Beans and lentils
Legumes
Whole grains
Healthy fats

Reduce your intake of processed foods, including desserts and sweetened beverages. These foods can trigger inflammation, increasing your risk of serious health conditions.

Request bloodwork from a doctor to determine if you have a vitamin deficiency. They may recommend you take supplements. Some vitamins (B, D, calcium, and magnesium) are poorly absorbed or not consumed enough by seniors.

Don't forget to stay hydrated! Try to finish eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day.

Explore your senior living community's dining program to enjoy delicious dishes. Invite your friends to dine with you. Eating together can ease feelings of social isolation and loneliness.

Rest

Getting enough sleep may help:

Improve heart health
Boost your mood
Lower your risk of chronic conditions
You maintain a healthy weight
Improve attention and memory
Reduce stress

Talk to a doctor if you're not getting at least seven hours of sleep each night. Difficulty sleeping may indicate you have an underlying condition.

Try adjusting your sleep environment by:

Keeping the room cool
Blocking out light
Minimizing noise
Getting a new mattress and bedding
Sticking to a routine schedule

Moving into comfortable senior living accommodations may help you relax. Otherwise, try different relaxation techniques like journaling before bed.

Enrichment Activities

Add sources of enjoyment to your life to uplift your mood and relieve stress.Explore these enrichment activities to improve your emotional health.

Hobbies

You can discover fun, engaging hobbies through your senior living community's events and activities calendar. Consider:

Reading
Writing
Cooking and baking
Crafting
Art
Painting and drawing
Gardening
Camping
Book or film club
Dancing
Visiting museums and galleries
Antiquing
Starting a collection

Participating in hobbies as you age can give you more enjoyment in life. It can encourage you to spend time with other seniors, limiting feelings of loneliness.

Enjoying hobbies may help lower your risk of some health problems. It could brighten your outlook on life, which could boost your longevity.

Meditation

Try meditating after a long day. Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth, keeping your attention on your breath. If a thought distracts you, redirect your attention.

This practice can improve your concentration and self-awareness. Other potential benefits include:

Calming your mind
Boosting mindfulness
Improving emotional resilience
Improving sleep quality
Boosting focus and concentration

Journal

Journaling can help you better understand your emotions. It may help relieve stress and improve your outlook on life.

Try filling a page each day. For guidance, use prompts for:

Expressive writing
Gratitude practices
Visualization
Tracking your mood

Emotional Support Programs

Your senior living community may offer emotional support programs. Here are two that may enhance your emotional resilience.

Support Groups

Join a support group if you're struggling with a chronic illness or grief. You can speak with other seniors who have shared similar experiences. Their advice can help you navigate a difficult time.

Potential benefits of joining a support group include:

Expressing emotions without fear or judgment
Sharing personal stories
Staying motivated
Gaining a sense of empowerment
Applying effective coping skills
Feeling less lonely

Memory Care Engagement

Explore activities that stimulate critical thinking. These activities can improve your neuroplasticity, which may lower your risk of Alzheimer's disease.

Activities that may benefit mental health for seniors include:

Exploring new hobbies
Completing puzzles
Playing trivia games
Playing chess or cards
Learning a new language
Learning new recipes
Playing an instrument
Playing sports