Have you ever started your day and said, “It’s definitely going to be one of those days!” Maybe your alarm didn’t go off, the hot water heater quit working, and the dog chewed up your favorite pair of shoes overnight. Now consider if every single day were “one of those days!” For an individual living with a chronic disease (and that is the majority of the older adult population), constant struggles and challenges can be a given.
Yet there are a number of steps that older adults can take to find and maintain a life of joy, even in the face of chronic illness. For instance:
- Pursue passions. Finding purpose and meaning in each and every day is essential – and attainable. Many older adults discover satisfaction in assisting and supporting other people. Others thrive on being lifelong learners. For some people it could mean documenting the past for the next generation. Brainstorm ideas until you come upon one that sparks passion, and then make it a reality.
- Adopt a positive outlook. One great way to discover a more positive outlook on life is through journaling. Encourage senior family members to begin each day by creating a list of everything they’re grateful for that morning, including the seemingly mundane: the smell of fresh coffee brewing, the dog curled up in a sunbeam, a planned movie date with a friend. At the conclusion of each week, sit together and read back through the prior entries for a quick and effective pick-me-up.
- Steer clear of negativity. Adding in a measure of positivity as discussed above can naturally lead to minimized negativity, but there are additional strategies that can be followed as well. For instance, take breaks from activities that induce aggravation, allowing time to de-stress. Place the emphasis on dealing with tasks that can be accomplished successfully, and find an alternative solution for those that are too challenging, such as delegating those tasks to another member of the family or friend, or engaging the services of a qualified professional.
- Get out of the house. Having as active a lifestyle as possible outside of the home can be enriching for older adults. Help older loved ones go out for hair appointments, shopping excursions, visits with relatives, and other fun outings, as much as they are able. Even simply going outdoors and relaxing on the front porch when weather permits can significantly elevate someone’s frame of mind and outlook.
At Compassionate Care Home Health Services, it is our mission to help older adults attain the highest possible quality of life, even in the face of a chronic disease. Our professionally trained and experienced caregivers provide cheerful companionship, engaging activities, transportation, and so much more. Call us at 877.308.1212 and learn the difference our in-home care services can make for a senior loved one in Saginaw, Alpena, West Branch, or the surrounding areas in Northern and Central Michigan.