Many of our elderly folk can so easily slip into depression and loneliness and make poor health/life choices, such as not eating properly due to low motivation, or even turning to alcohol as a distraction or as a crutch to keep going. Very often this is a result of not having enough to stimulate their minds or get their bodies moving.
Distance and loneliness
While we, as younger generation family members have hectic schedules with work and family life, our elderly loved ones can feel isolated, excluded, and unloved. This, of course, is not necessarily the case. As we all know, the demands that are placed on our time as working individuals, is how life is today. We may not have the time we would like to spend with our elderly loved ones, which can cause unintentional feelings of loneliness and distance from family.
Illness/lack of mental stimulation
Other causes include illness and a lack of mental or physical stimulation. Aches and pains can also hamper the will to do something. However, this doesn’t mean we must neglect our mental health. It’s proven that having a hobby significantly slows down mental decline and stimulates endorphins.
Stimulating hobbies and new interests
There are many great reasons to start investigating a new interest or hobby. A new experience, especially a challenging one, provides a sense of purpose and reason for being. This, in turn, provides a feeling of accomplishment and mental reward. A new hobby is something that requires no pressure, and therefore can be a significant way of relieving stress.
Physical stimulation
Physical activity, if abilities allow, are extremely beneficial. Movement stimulates both the mind and body while at the same time relieving stiff and painful joints. Simple walks or stretching exercises are more than enough to keep those wheels greased! Having a daily exercise routine has a significant impact on slowing down cognitive and mental decline. Joining groups with similar interests also gives one a sense of community and belonging.
Mental stimulation
There are numerous things we can do to stimulate new brain paths as well as existing ones. Playing board games, doing puzzles, reading interesting/stimulating books, learning about new subjects, keeping plants or pets, all have a positive effect on our mental wellbeing. Pets are a wonderful source of giving love and affection, with no strings attached. Their unconditional love is food for the soul.
With all these sources of stimulation, there is absolutely no reason to not want to start, or help your elderly loved one start, a new hobby or interest. After all, it’s never too late to start something new, no matter what age we are.