10 Tips to Help Seniors Adjust to Change

Change is inevitable; it's a part of life from the time you're born until you die. You start school, move to a new home, get married, have children, lose a job, get divorced, and the list goes on. Change can also occur later in life – retirement, loss of a spouse, medical diagnosis, downsizing, etc. Change –good or bad – can be stressful at any age.

However, change can be particularly challenging for seniors who may feel they don't have the physical abilities or mental acumen they once did. Furthermore, the effects of stress can exacerbate health conditions common to older adults, such as increased blood pressure and changes in appetite.

5 Tips for Seniors to Adjust to Change

1.    Prepare
You can't anticipate every change, but preparing as much as possible will make the change (when and if it comes) that much easier. For example, research your options now if you anticipate possibly moving into an over-55 or assisted living community.
 
 2.    Practice Self-Care
Taking care of yourself is essential at any time, but you'll be better able to handle change if you are physically and mentally healthy. Here are a few self-care tips:

a.    Exercise regularly – 30 minutes of walking every day can improve your health.

b.    Eat healthy – If you're used to cooking for a big family, cooking for one or two can be challenging. However, it is essential for good health.

c.     Stay hydrated – "Water is essential to almost all bodily functions, from lubricating our joints to pumping blood to our heart," according to the National Council on Aging. "Older adults are more prone to becoming dehydrated for a number of reasons, including a diminished sense of thirst." Dehydration can lead to fatigue, dizziness, headaches, and more.

d.    Get enough sleep – "Older adults need about the same amount of sleep as all adults—7 to 9 hours each night," the National Institute on Aging reports. "There are many reasons why older people may not get enough sleep at night. Feeling sick or being in pain can make it hard to sleep. Some medicines can keep you awake." Lack of sleep can lead to depression, falls, memory problems, and more.

3.    Remember… You can do this!
Think of all the changes you've been through so far. Remind yourself of all you have to be grateful for and try to minimize unhelpful or negative thoughts.

4.    Enjoy Relaxing Activities
If you're going through a change, you need to find ways to destress, and activities such as yoga, meditation, getting outside, getting a massage, working on crossword puzzles, etc., can help. Find what works best for you and find time to incorporate those activities into your daily life.

5.   Stay Connected
We are social beings who need social interaction at any age. A lack of consistent social interaction can cause stress, depression, and other health issues. And sometimes, just talking to someone about your concerns can make chances seem more manageable. 

5 Tips for Caregivers to Help Seniors Adjust to Change 

1.    Be consistent
Don't make unnecessary changes. Communicate with them at the same time every day or every week.
 

2.    Be Empathetic and Listen
Empathy is the ability to understand and share someone else's feelings. Imagine how you might feel in their situation – experiencing memory loss, new pains, the fear of being unable to care for yourself, etc. You may not be able to eliminate all of their concerns, but sometimes they just need someone to listen and validate their concerns. 

3.    Have the Tough Conversations Now
Before you face an emergency, talk to your loved one about the uncertainties that may lay ahead, their wishes, and how you can help them maintain their independence.   

4.    Plan Ahead
Try to plan for potential changes or issues. For example, if you anticipate that your loved one may not be able to drive in the near future, check into local transportation resources.   

5.    Remind Them of Their Strength
A friend once said, "Gettin' old ain't for sissies." How true!? Your loved one has had to overcome many challenges throughout their life. Remind them of the strength within them to handle change and let them know that they are not alone.

You Are Not Alone

The highly trained caregivers at Comforting Home Care by Phoebe can help seniors and their families adjust to changes by fostering caring, engaged relationships that bring comfort and peace of mind.

Discover how we can help. Contact us today at 610-625-5206 or connect with us online.