VISITING ANGELS JENKINTOWN, PA 215-938-7201
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Practical Ways Seniors Can Destress

Practical Ways Seniors Can Destress

Stress is an inevitable part of the human experience. Some stress is even vital to our survival, which is why our body is equipped with the fight-or-flight response. However, chronic stress is not normal and can be extremely harmful to the health of an older adult. Chronic stress can cause chronic health conditions and can trigger anxiety or depression. 

Older adults have an increased risk of experiencing more stressful events, such as the loss of a loved one or financial insecurity. Physical changes due to age can also trigger stress, especially if those changes cause them to lose their independence. 

April is National Stress Awareness Month. It reminds us all to take stock of our current stress levels and implement techniques to better manage stress. This includes seniors. Here are a few practical ways seniors can destress. 

Listen to Music 

Our smart phones and televisions make it easy to be inundated with the news constantly throughout the day. This can cause unnecessary stress for many seniors. Destress by turning off the television, putting your phone away, and playing your favorite music. Music has a way of changing the mood in the room in a matter of seconds. Whether it’s an upbeat playlist that gets you moving, or a piece by your favorite classical composer that lets you unwind, let the music wash over you and melt away your stress. 

Practice Yoga 

Yoga is another powerful way to eliminate stress. It helps older adults build muscle, improve balance, and maintain flexibility, while also reducing stress through relaxation. Anyone can practice yoga, regardless of their flexibility. Over time, your flexibility and strength will improve, while your stress levels decrease. There are many styles and intensities of yoga. If you’re new to the practice, look for a seated yoga instructional DVD at your local library. Always consult your doctor before beginning any new exercise program.

Bake Bread

Baking bread is an activity that can keep older adults focused throughout the day. It doesn’t require much skill or effort. Yet, it can easily occupy an older adult’s mind, taking the focus off their stressor. The process is very tactile. Kneading dough has a calming quality, forcing older adults to remain in the moment. The aroma of the bread baking in the oven also fills the home with a sense of calm. Consider baking a loaf of bread the next time you’re feeling stressed. Find a recipe online or look for baking tutorials to help you get started. 

Head Outdoors 

Fresh air and sunshine are essential for coping with anxiety and stress. The best part about the outdoors is that older adults don’t need to go far to reap the benefits of nature. Spending time outside on the front porch or back patio is enough to lower cortisol levels, or the body’s main stress hormone. Make an effort to get outside as much as possible. Read outside or simply enjoy the sounds of nature from the comfort of your own backyard. If you can, go for a walk outside for an even bigger stress reliever. 

Another way for seniors to manage stress is to enlist the help of Visiting Angels Jenkintown. We provide a comprehensive approach to senior home care that is customized to meet your individual needs. Our caregivers can help alleviate the stress of housekeeping, laundry, meal planning and preparation, in addition to providing assistance with personal care. Many of our clients have noticed a significant decrease in their stress levels after partnering with us. To learn more, or to schedule your free consultation, please contact us today by calling 215-938-7201.

Serving Jenkintown, Abington, Huntingdon Valley, Glenside, Chestnut Hill, Flourtown and the Surrounding Areas

Visiting Angels JENKINTOWN, PA
1250 Greenwood Ave #1A
Jenkintown, PA 19046
Phone: 215-938-7201
215-938-7202
Fax: 215-887-7204

Serving Jenkintown, Abington, Huntingdon Valley, Glenside, Chestnut Hill, Flourtown and the Surrounding Areas

Visiting Angels JENKINTOWN, PA
1250 Greenwood Ave #1A
Jenkintown, PA 19046
Phone: 215-938-7201
215-938-7202
Fax: 215-887-7204