Maintaining a positive outlook is important for your mental health
regardless of your age, but as we get older, change and loss may challenge
even the most optimistic individual. Understanding the changes in your
body can help you know what to expect as you age. Understanding the
changes in your mind may help you prevent depression and postpone some
forms of cognitive impairment. Accepting change and reducing stress
can keep you mentally healthy.
Your local Council on Aging, Area Agency on Aging or in Massachusetts,
Aging Service Access Points (ASAPs) can help you to find a number of
volunteer opportunities. Helping others often improves our sense of
well being. (Click here for more information
on volunteering.) These agencies can also
help you to find support groups, respite care for those caring for loved
ones in their homes, social activities and housing options. The Protective
Services/Elder at Risk Department at the Area Agency on Aging can assist
those who feel they are at risk in the community, either due to their
own circumstances or because others are infringing on your rights.
Exercise is another way that may help to ward off signs of depression.
The local YM/YWCA may offer many programs for seniors, as do many senior
centers. A number of health clubs now offer special programs for older
adults, that are designed for those who have mobility impairments due
to arthritis or other diseases.
Playing cards, games and reading are excellent ways to exercise the
mind. Find a new hobby or activity to learn. Mastering a new skill can
raise your self-esteem. Listening to music can be soothing and a warm
bath or foot soak can often rid you of tension, which may lead to more
physical stress. Find your sense of humor. Laughter may very well be
the best medicine.
Maintaining good relationships with family and friends is essential
for better mental health. Stay in touch even if some of that is by telephone.
Isolation can be very destructive. When you have a problem talk to a
friend or relative. If this person is helpful to you, reward that friendship
by listening to their problems later. See your minister, priest or rabbi
for spiritual guidance.
Some personalities become softer with age, while others may become more
critical or domineering. If you find yourself feeling that others are
trying to control you, practice ways to tell them your needs and wants.
If you feel you are being very critical or angry with others, look inside
your heart and find out what is really bothering you. Discuss this with
family, friends or a counselor and try to "mend fences" quickly. Holding
a grudge will only create more stress for you and your family.
The Internet offers a wide variety of information and opportunity to
learn and interact. Resources such as the National Institute on Mental
Health can help with more specific diagnoses, but for many, using the
Internet means finding and sharing information that will keep you mentally
healthy. Sites such as the National Councils on Aging, National Institutes
of Aging and the American Association of Retired Persons will offer
information on topics such as transportation, finances, health insurance,
etc. Use the web sites on this page to obtain more information.
For information on posiive aging from the Centers of Disease Control(CDC)
click www.cdc.gov/aging
For publications from the CDC click www.cdc.gov/aging/publications
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DIRECTORY
The Aging Body
About Advanced Directives
Diet and Exercise
Elders and The Arts Growing Old May Not Be So Bad Memory Among Seniors Improved By Rote Learning Normal Aging Among Cambodians
Religion Among Elders
Six Dimensions of Wellness
Sleep and Good Health
Socialization
Stress and Our Adaptions
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