Get Moving
ChooseMyPlate touts the importance of physical activity for seniors which, just as with diet, is different for everybody.
What’s universal, however, is that physical activity is crucial to staying strong and remaining independent as we age. For most adults of any age, this means 150 minutes (2.5 hours) of exercise every week.
Play Brain Games
Research shows that the use-it-or-lose-it philosophy is real when it comes to mental sharpness and that by regularly doing puzzles and playing mind-stimulating games, seniors can stave off cognitive decline. The AARP has a special page dedicated to games and puzzles just for seniors.
Socialize
Loneliness and inactivity speed up the aging process and reduce overall health and mental cognition.
Seniors should vow this year to stay in touch with family and friends, join social groups, and use social media to identify and meet up with people who share the same interests.
Speak Up About Your Feelings
Aging can be stressful and depressing, but the clinical condition known as depression is not a normal part of aging and is more than just feeling sad or blue. Visit the National Institute on Aging to learn about the signs of depression, which go far beyond just sadness.
Many seniors came of age in a time when stoicism was valued, but if you’re experiencing any symptoms of depression, the worst thing you can do is keep them to yourself.
Eat Better
Eating right can mean something different for everyone, but according to the Department of Agriculture’s ChooseMyPlate, all seniors need to focus on upping their intake of potassium, calcium, vitamin B12, dietary fiber, and minerals.
Companion Care
Staying active and socially engaged is critical for seniors’ health and well-being. And as much as we love spending time with our loved ones, most of us can’t be there as much as we’d like to provide that needed companionship.
Our caregivers are experienced with far more than just the physical and medical tasks of home care. We offer in-home elder care in San Luis Obispo and surrounding areas that fill the gaps and warms the heart, giving a richer, more fulfilling experience for your loved one.
Companion care services include but are not limited to:
- Talking, listening, and sharing experiences
- Playing games and cards
- Reading assistance
- Doing puzzles
- Escorting to and from check-ups, errands, social events, etc.
- Sorting and organizing mail
- Connecting with friends and family through social media (Skype, Facebook, etc.)
Superior Senior Home Care offers a complimentary consultation with an advisor to help you determine your loved one’s home care needs. To schedule your free consultation, call 805.430.8767 or contact us online.
