Coping Mechanisms for Depression in Seniors: Tools for Emotional Wellness

According to the CDC, around 4% of adults over 70 have depression. Contrary to popular belief, depression isn't a normal part of aging, and as you can see from the statistics, in reality, very few seniors are depressed.

Yet it's still very possible for your older loved one to have this mental health issue, and managing depression on their own can be challenging.

If you'd like to learn more about emotional support for aging adults, then keep reading. We'll go over effective coping mechanisms for depression for seniors in Orland Park, IL. With the right tools, your loved one will be able to maintain a high quality of life.

Stay Socially Connected

Social isolation and loneliness are significant risk factors for depression in older adults. As they age, it may become more difficult to have an active social life, and they may inadvertently become shut off from the world.

To help combat this, you can arrange regular phone or video calls with family and friends. When seniors spend time with younger family members, this can boost their mood and provide a fresh perspective.

You can also look into clubs that your loved one can join or volunteer work that they can do. This can give them a sense of purpose and community, and they'll meet like-minded people.

Another option is to get them into assisted living in Orland Park. There, they'll get plenty of social interactions from fellow residents and staff.

Maintain Physical Activity

As we get older, it becomes more challenging to keep up with exercise. We're not as limber as we used to be, and there's pain, too.

But it should come as no surprise that many studies have found that physical activity has significant senior mental health benefits, even if you don't do the recommended levels. Not only does it make you feel mentally better due to the endorphins, but it can also help keep your body in good shape.

For healthy aging, your loved one can start with daily walking, as even short strolls can help. Then, they can turn to low-impact workouts like swimming, tai chi, yoga, or chair exercises. Adding stretching and balance routines is beneficial as well, as these can prevent falls and maintain flexibility.

If ever in doubt, they should follow an exercise routine recommended by their doctor or physical therapist. This ensures that they don't push themselves too hard and get injured.

Develop a Routine

Having a routine can help diminish depression symptoms since you get a sense of control and stability. Plus, it adds purpose to each day.

Speak with your loved one and set regular sleep, meal, and activity times. Make sure you schedule enjoyable activities, like hobbies or relaxation time.

To make it easier for them to follow this new routine, use planners or calendars. These tools can help organize appointments and goals, as well as make the tasks more visual.

Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation

Stress and anxiety often appear alongside depression, which can compound mental health issues. But there's hope through key mental wellness strategies. Mindfulness and active relaxation are both great ways for your loved one to boost their mental health.

One simple exercise is to do deep breathing. Inhale for four seconds, hold for four, and then exhale for another four. By repeating this, they'll feel a sense of calmness wash over.

Another easy exercise is to do progressive muscle relaxation. To do it, lie down and tense different muscle groups, and then relax them.

Other ways for your loved one to practice mindfulness and relaxation are to use guided meditation or mindfulness apps, or listen to calming music or nature sounds.

Cultivate Gratitude and Positivity

It can be easy to get stuck in a negative cycle of thinking, which can make you feel trapped in depression. But if you make an active effort to have a positive outlook, you can turn things around.

Your loved one should practice daily gratitude by writing down three things they're thankful for every morning. This can help them focus on good things and accomplishments rather than losses.

They can also speak positive affirmations. When repeating these encouraging statements, they'll experience increased life satisfaction and resilience.

Support Healthy Nutrition

Nutrition can impact both physical and mental health, and unfortunately, many seniors don't eat well enough.

Sit down with your loved one to see how they're eating. Together, you can come up with regular, balanced meals that include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid processed foods and sugar.

Make sure that they're staying hydrated, too. Dehydration can worsen fatigue and confusion.

If you'd like further assistance and personalized guidance, then consult a dietitian who specializes in geriatric diets. Or if your loved one requires more extensive assistance in their daily life, look into a senior living community. Not only are there compassionate staff members to aid in tasks, but there are exclusive programs that ensure they have delicious yet healthy meals.

Seek Professional Help When Needed

Depression can be an immensely challenging thing to deal with, and not just for seniors. There may come a point where professional help is needed, as coping mechanisms aren't working or have diminished returns.

It's perfectly normal and okay to need external support for managing mental health, so encourage your loved one to do so. You can help them find therapists and counselors with experience in aging-related issues. There are telehealth appointments available, so they won't have to worry about leaving the house.

Employ These Coping Mechanisms for Depression

Now you know that depression isn't actually a normal part of aging, so it's important to keep an eye out for symptoms in your loved one. Should you suspect anything, then you'll have the right coping mechanisms for depression to offer them. With your help, they can manage stress and improve their overall well-being, which can result in them thriving mentally, physically, and emotionally.

Get in touch with us if you're interested in senior living in Orland Park. You can get up to $3,000 off on your first month's rent here at Discovery Commons Orland Park.