Many look forward to retirement life because of the perception of it being stress-free. However, that is not the case. Stressful situations do continue to arise during the retirement stage. It can be in the form of losing a loved one, or deterioration of health. Younger people tend to cope better with stress and move on, but it can be harder for mature adults. Stress can affect your energy, focus, and eventually your physical and mental health. Here are some ways for you to help reduce stress in aging adults.
Identify What Is Stressing You
The first thing to help your loved ones cope better with stress is by identifying what the stressor is. Without knowing what is stressing your loved ones, the stress and frustration that they feel will be amplified as it feels like they are worrying over nothing. Knowing where the stress stems from will help your loved ones figure out a way to eliminate it. They can have heart-to-heart talks to someone they trust or write it down in a journal, and think of ways to overcome it from there.
Stay Active
Doing sufficient exercise every day does help to reduce the feeling of stress amongst people. Set a goal to get your loved one’s heart rate up for half an hour every day, and they will soon see their mood become better. There are many things your loved ones can do to stay active, be it walking with their family, biking, swimming, or even simple exercise classes with friends. Doing some stress relief techniques can also relieve some tension and anxiety your loved ones may be feeling. Help them get into a habit of meditating in the morning. They can even do some deep breathing exercises or yoga to help with stress relief.
Socialize
Another way for your loved ones to relieve stress is to have a strong support system around them. Constantly talking to friends and family will help them a lot to forget about their stress, and make them happier as well. It is always good for them to have someone that provides a crying shoulder and listening ear when times are tough. You can be that for them too. Always check in on them, and spend as much time as you can with them. Another way quality time can alleviate stress is by having a good laugh every day. Laughter is truly one of the best medicines and can be achieved simply by making a joke or watching a comedy film.
Take a Break
Last but not least, it is okay for them to take a break from their usual routines. Instead of their usual late mornings, encourage them to wake up early for a walk. Try new restaurants or cafes around the neighborhood or pick up a new hobby they like. If they are constantly moving about, give them a chance to wind down and relax. Sometimes these small changes can help with stress, so give it a try.
