Making health and wellness for seniors a priority is important during the pandemic.
While we are able to start to see the light at the end of the tunnel, the COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on our physical and emotional wellbeing. Months of isolation and physical separation from family and friends has taken a toll on many seniors and those they love. Now is an ideal time to focus on rebuilding health and wellness for seniors and family caregivers alike. Our senior care team has some recommendations to get you started.
Establish a Routine
Having an established schedule helps set the tone for the day. Regardless of what the day’s plan may be, wake up at a specific time and follow a routine. For instance:
- 7 a.m. – Get up and ready for the day
- 8 a.m. – Have a wholesome breakfast
- 9 a.m. – Stretching, meditation/prayer, mindfulness, and exercise
- 10 a.m. – Call or video chat with a friend or family member
- 11 a.m. – Work on a puzzle or any other mentally-stimulating activity
- 12 p.m. – Lunch
- Afternoon: An outing, walk, housework, engagement in an activity or pastime, etc.
- 5 p.m. – Dinner
- 6 p.m. – Wind down for the day by watching a movie, listening to music, reading, or doing other sorts of soothing activities
- 9 p.m. – Get ready for bed
The routine does not need to be rigidly followed, but it can serve as the framework to stop the desire to simply settle into the couch for the day.
Work Out Every Day
Aim for at least 15 minutes every day of some type of physician-approved physical activity: riding a stationary bike, going on a walk around the neighborhood or on a treadmill, or following along with a recorded workout program. Incorporate some balance and stretching exercises as well to strengthen muscles and help prevent falls.
Connect with Others
Even with physical distancing requirements in place, social connection is critical. We know that isolation is incredibly hazardous to an older adult’s health and wellbeing, and it’s important that socialization be a top priority. Safe options to stay connected include chatting with other people through social media and other online platforms, making use of virtual meeting software like Zoom or Skype to “visit” with friends and family, and joining online classes, clubs, and support groups. And of course, an in-home caregiver from Morning Glory Home Care, a highly-rated provider of elder care in Edwardsville, IL and nearby areas, is a superb way for seniors to safely enjoy companionship with others. We’re also here to help seniors set up and make use of the necessary technology to remain connected with family and friends. Reach out to us for details!
Try Something New
Intellectual involvement sparks creativity and helps maintain cognitive functioning. The choices are limitless! Learn a new language, play memory and word games on the web, discover a new hobby that you’ve always wanted to try. Reward yourself for the accomplishments, too!
Make Time to Relax and Unwind
Depression and anxiety are spiking as a consequence of the pandemic, in individuals of all ages. Combat mental health problems by getting plenty of sleep, spending some time engaging in pleasant activities each day, and getting outdoors as much as possible. Simply relaxing on the porch and listening to the birds can be exceedingly uplifting and calming.
Morning Glory Home Care is always available to help raise the health and wellness of seniors along with family caregivers. Our respite care services let family members take time off from caregiving duties for self-care. Seniors also discover an increased quality of life through our full range of home care services. A win-win! Call us at 618-667-8400 for a free in-home assessment and for additional information on our award-winning elder care in Edwardsville, IL and nearby communities.