Maintaining emotional and physical wellbeing during the pandemic is critical.
While we can certainly start to see the light at the end of the tunnel, the COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on our emotional and physical wellbeing. Months of isolation and physical separation from people we love has taken a toll on many older adults and the ones they love.
Now is the perfect time for seniors and family caregivers alike to devote time and focus to rebuilding health and wellness. Our senior care team has some recommendations to help you get started.
Establish a Routine
Having an established schedule helps set the tone for the day. Regardless of what the day’s plan may be, wake up at a designated time and follow a routine. For instance:
- 7 a.m. – Get up and ready for the day
- 8 a.m. – Have a healthy breakfast
- 9 a.m. – Stretching, mindfulness, meditation/prayer, and exercise
- 10 a.m. – Call or video chat with a friend or family member
- 11 a.m. – Work on a puzzle or any other mentally-stimulating activity
- 12 p.m. – Lunch
- Afternoon: An outing, walk, household chores, engagement in an activity or pastime, etc.
- 5 p.m. – Dinner
- 6 p.m. – Wind down for the day by watching a movie, reading, listening to music, or doing another soothing activity
- 9 p.m. – Get ready for bed
Needless to say, the routine does not need to be rigidly followed; however, it serves as the framework to prevent the urge to simply settle into the couch for the day.
Work Out Daily
Aim for a minimum of a quarter-hour daily of some sort of doctor-approved physical exercise: riding a stationary bike, taking a walk around the neighborhood or on a treadmill, or following along with a recorded workout program. Incorporate some balance and stretching exercises as well to bolster muscles and help prevent falls.
Connect with Others
Even with physical distancing requirements in place, social connection is essential. We understand that isolation is extremely hazardous to an older adult’s health, and it is essential that socialization be a top priority. Safe choices to stay connected include chatting with others through social media and other online platforms, making use of virtual meeting software like Zoom or Skype to “visit” with friends and relatives, and joining online classes, clubs, and support groups. And of course, an in-home caregiver from Anthem Home Care, an award-winning provider of trusted senior care in Rockport, TX and the surrounding communities, is a wonderful way for seniors to safely enjoy companionship with other people. We’re also here to help older adults set up and make use of the necessary technology to remain connected with family and friends. Contact us for details!
Try Something New
Intellectual involvement stimulates creativity and helps preserve cognitive functioning. The choices are limitless! Learn a new language, play memory and word games on the web, discover a brand new hobby that you’ve always wanted to try. Reward yourself for the achievements, too!
Make Time to Relax and Unwind
Depression and anxiety are spiking because of the pandemic, in individuals of all ages. Overcome mental health issues by getting a good amount of sleep, spending some time participating in relaxing activities each day, and getting outdoors as much as possible. Simply sitting on the porch and listening to the birds tends to be remarkably uplifting and calming.
Anthem Home Care, provider of senior care in Rockport and the surrounding areas, is always available to help boost the emotional and physical health and wellbeing of seniors as well as family caregivers. Our respite care services let family members take time off from caregiving responsibilities for self-care. Older adults also discover an increased quality of life through our full selection of home care services. A win-win! Email or call us at 361-643-2323 to learn more.