Healthy Ageing for Older Adults
In Ireland, the number of people aged 65 and older is expected to reach 1.6 million by 2051. Living longer comes with huge challenges, especially when it comes to staying mentally fit.
Maintaining a healthy mind requires time and effort. So, what are the best strategies to ensure we stay happy and positive? Read on to find out.
Eat a Healthy Diet
It’s not just our bodies that need nourishment. Our brains do, too. Ideally, a balanced diet should be low in saturated fat and rich in fruit and vegetables to support overall health and wellbeing.
Eating a variety of nutrient-rich foods can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia and support brain health as you grow older.
Brain-Boosting Foods
Oily fish have become known as brain food. It’s a good source of omega-3 fatty acids that help build cell membranes, including neurons found in the brain. Ideally, you should include oily fish in your diet at least once a week.
If having a steady supply of fruit and vegetables in the house is tricky, use tinned or frozen varieties instead. They can be just as nourishing.
Hydration and Alcohol Intake
Staying hydrated is important, too, especially when ageing. But you should avoid fizzy drinks that are full of sugar.
A glass of wine or beer can help us relax, but too much alcohol can cause all sorts of health problems, particularly related to sleep. While it may help you fall asleep initially, it can lead to dehydration and restless nights.
Alcohol is a depressant, and if you drink too much, you’ll start the day feeling less sharp and lacking in energy.
Stay Physically Active
There’s a reason why people use the expression “a healthy body has a healthy mind.” When we exercise, we produce endorphins, which boost mood and promote positive feelings.
Choose a physical activity that matches your abilities and make it part of your daily routine. Swimming and aqua aerobics are both great for physical fitness while being gentle on the joints. Walking, climbing stairs, or even chair exercises all count.
Group exercise offers extra motivation and helps build social interaction. Staying engaged with others reduces loneliness while promoting physical health. Pick an activity you enjoy, whether it’s a dance class or learning a new routine with a friend. Sticking with it is what matters most.
Stay Connected
When we have a support network, it gives us a sense of belonging and boosts our well-being. Older adults may experience social isolation and loneliness, so make time to talk to family and friends regularly to keep socially connected.
If you have access to a computer, use it for video calls or join online social groups to share hobbies and experiences.
Check out groups and activities close to where you live. You could consider taking up a new hobby or learning a new craft that connects you with others through classes. Singing in a choir, taking up crochet, or joining a book club are all great choices.
Learn More About Mindfulness for Mental Wellbeing
Mindfulness is so effective that many doctors in Ireland recommend it for anxiety and depression instead of medication. If you’re new to mindfulness, it is a technique that helps us be more aware and become connected to what is around us.
When we sit quietly, it’s normal for us to sometimes focus on worries that are troubling us. Mindfulness acknowledges this and encourages us to shift attention to the present moment, like noticing how an item of clothing feels on our body or the sound of children playing outside.
This practice teaches us to let go of things beyond our control. It can also improve sleep, especially for those who wake up during the night. There are plenty of apps, books, and online publications that can help get you started.
Take Care of Your Body
Staying on top of your personal care makes us feel better and improves our sense of self-worth. These simple daily habits can help maintain your health and comfort:
Schedule regular hearing and eyesight tests to catch any issues early.
Keep your teeth healthy by flossing or using interdental brushes to prevent gum disease. Bleeding gums can be linked to diabetes, strokes, heart disease, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Make regular hair appointments.
Apply moisturiser to your feet to prevent dry skin and cut toenails straight across.
Ensure you wear footwear that fits you properly and gives your feet optimum support.
Give Yourself a Vitamin Boost
Because of our climate, many people in Ireland have a vitamin D deficiency. While sunlight provides some vitamin D, it’s often not enough. When we don’t get enough, it can cause bone issues, cognitive impairment and even heart disease.
Some experts recommend that all adults in Ireland should take a vitamin D supplement. Spending at least 20 minutes outside each day can also help. You should talk to your doctor if you have concerns about your vitamin intake.
Stay Mentally Active
Keeping track of activities with lists or a diary helps ensure we stay engaged. Exercising the mind is a great way to keep your mind sharp and prevent mental decline.
Here are some suggestions you could incorporate into your daily routine:
Solve puzzles such as crosswords and Sudoku.
Learn something new, such as a recipe, a card game or a handicraft.
Paint or draw.
Write letters to friends and relatives.
Subscribe to a new magazine.
Try playing a musical instrument.
Choose Comfort Keepers for Extra Company
Our homecare team meets hundreds of older people every day. They’re able to offer practical advice designed to enhance the mental health of older adults. They can tailor this to suit your needs or those of a loved one.
With years of experience, they know what works and are always happy to share the tips they pick up. If you would like more information about the range of services Comfort Keepers can offer, get in touch with us now.
Connect with us
To begin starting care for your loved one, see our steps to starting care.
To join our incredible award-winning team, you can apply now or email your CV to recruitment@comfortkeepers.ie.
