Phoenixville, PA — famous for its annual Firebird Festival that celebrates rebirth and renewal-is also a town where seniors can embrace emotional renewal. By learning to manage depression and prioritizing their mental wellbeing, it’s possible to enjoy improved mental wellness for seniors.
If you’re struggling with depression as an older adult, you are far from alone. The National Council on Aging reports that up to 5% of older adults struggle with depression. However, there are coping mechanisms for depression that can bring relief.
In this article, we’ll explore six coping mechanisms for depression that are proving helpful for seniors across the land. We’ll also examine how a senior living community can help brighten your days and help you cope with the symptoms of depression.
1. Maintain a Good Routine
One of the simplest and best senior support strategies for adults with mental health challenges is to build a strong daily routine. When you have depression, unstructured time can be overwhelming. A predictable daily routine can help you feel your life has structure and stability, reduce anxiety, and maintain motivation.
According to WebMD, good routines can result in:
- Reduced stress
- Better sleep
- Improved overall health
- Greater happiness
2. Stay Connected With Other People
As we get older, we may find it harder to get out of the house. Some of our close friends may downsize and move away, and we no longer have the daily social connection that work provides. There is a clear link between the process of aging and mental health challenges, and isolation and loneliness can play a part in that.
One of the best coping mechanisms for depression is to schedule regular interactions with other people. This could include:
- Speaking on the phone with family and friends
- Joining a social club
- Attending community events
- Arranging to meet up with friends
However, this can be overwhelming when we’re struggling with the symptoms of depression. Senior living communities make it much easier to make social connections naturally as we get older.
Senior living communities organize a packed activity calendar. While enjoying engaging activities such as crafts, wellness classes, and hobbies, you have time to interact with other people. There are staff on hand 24/7, so you need never feel alone.
3. Move Your Body
It can be hard to find the motivation to exercise when you’re feeling depressed. If you live alone, the thought of going for a walk, heading to the gym, or going swimming could be overwhelming. However, according to PsychCentral, this is just the time when you need to move the most.
Exercise has been shown to help reduce the symptoms of depression. And we’re not talking about running a marathon or pumping iron. Something as simple as low to moderate intensity exercise, like walking or even doing household chores, is enough to help.
When you’re surrounded by supportive people, it’s easier to find the motivation to exercise. Senior living communities arrange regular fitness classes that are tailored to the needs of seniors. You can enjoy them with good company, and you’re bound to have a few laughs as you do them.
4. Get Creative
Many of us have spent our whole lives being too busy to spend time doing the hobbies and crafts we love. Your golden years are the perfect time to enjoy your hobbies-and they can be an important way of improving the symptoms of depression.
Some examples of hobbies that support mental wellness for seniors include:
- Art therapy
- Playing music
- Crafting
- Writing and journaling
Art therapy is particularly powerful because it allows you to express your emotions without words. If you find it hard to express how you’re feeling verbally, let your pencil or paintbrush express what’s going on inside. It can be a useful outlet that can bring immense satisfaction.
5. Nourish Your Body and Mind
A healthy diet is essential for good physical and mental health. For seniors, this means eating meals that are packed with nutrients that support brain health.
These include foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish and walnuts. Also, eating lots of fruits and vegetables can support a healthy mind. Drinking enough water is also key.
6. Seek Professional Support
It is not always possible or advisable to manage the symptoms of depression with lifestyle changes alone. It is also important to seek advice from qualified mental health professionals. They have a deep understanding of depression needed to help you find effective coping strategies.
These may include therapies that can help seniors work through feelings of grief, trauma, and loss. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has proved effective for many seniors by helping them to reframe negative ways of thinking.
Your doctor may also recommend medications that can help reduce the symptoms. According to the Cleveland Clinic, antidepressants can help by regulating mood and behavior. They may be part of a range of solutions that can help you feel differently and enjoy your senior years to the full.
How Senior Living Supports Coping Mechanisms for Depression
Senior living communities can help relieve the isolation, loneliness, and depression that many seniors encounter. They support emotional health in aging adults in the following ways:
- Reducing home maintenance and cleaning stress
- Providing support with the activities of daily living
- Offering activities that promote mental wellness for seniors
- Providing a stimulating company
- Giving the reassurance of 24/7 support
While a senior living community is not a cure for depression, it can be part of a range of senior support strategies that help sufferers to cope. You can rest assured that everyone in the community is on your side and committed to helping you enjoy the best mental, physical, and emotional health possible.
Spring Mill Senior Living Prioritizes Mental Wellness for Seniors
At Spring Mill Senior Living, we recognize the signs of depression in elderly residents and can help them seek support. Our tailored caretaker assistance and activity programs can also prove to be valuable coping mechanisms for depression in our residents.
For example, we prioritise mental, emotional, and physical well-being through our engaging Celebrations Activities & Events. Highlights include educational classes, craft and hobby clubs, and fitness programs. The focus is on staying well and having a great time.
Seeing is believing! Schedule a tour and experience our welcoming Phoenixville community today!
