Although most people look forward to retirement problems associated with aging and other life circumstances can sometimes make the “golden years” far from glamorous. Unfortunately, millions of seniors every year deal with physical, mental and emotional challenges that keep them from enjoying fulfilling lives. On the other hand, finding ways to overcome those obstacles is the key to living a happier, healthier life. If you have a senior loved one who’s not living life to the fullest here’s how to help them get back on the right track.

Common Challenges for the Elderly

These are some of the more common challenges that older Americans face:

  • Changes to their physical and mental health
  • Rising healthcare costs
  • Elder abuse
  • Financial insecurity
  • Loss of a spouse or other close loved one
  • Social isolation and loneliness

Based on a recent Pew Research Center study, over 25% of all seniors (age 60+) in the US live alone. For many not having anyone else in the household keeps them from staying active and socially engaged.

Tips for Living a More Fulfilling Life

At any age there seems to be a correlation between happiness, wellness and quality of life. If you’re a senior, here’s how to get your zest for life back:

Volunteer

Volunteer work and charitable giving have a positive effect on self-esteem and mental health so start volunteering at a food kitchen, cancer center or hospital. Donating your time while giving back to the community will make you feel more alive and in control of your legacy.

Start a fitness routine

Regular exercise not only benefits your body physically, it’s a proven stress-reliever, sleep inducer and self-confidence booster. Joining a senior fitness center is also a great way to meet others and cultivate new friendships. Eating a healthier diet and avoiding bad habits like smoking and drinking alcohol to excess will also make your life feel more rewarding.

Adopt a pet

Owning a dog or cat provides you with many mental health benefits that boost your sense of self-worth. Getting out and taking a walk with your dog is also good way to exercise and meet new people.

A new furry friend will not only give you a reason to wake up every morning at the same time- they will also stimulate some healthy laughter in the process.

Modify your home

If mobility issues or a disability are holding you back, modifying your home can help you enjoy a more fulfilling life. For example, if you use a wheelchair, installing ramps, lowering the kitchen countertops and replacing your tub with a walk-in shower will all make life easier and more enjoyable.

Do some traveling

Most retired seniors enjoy traveling, so get out and visit some of the exotic destinations that you’ve always wanted to see. Even taking a short trip provides you with health benefits like physical exercise, recharging your emotions, improving mood and eliminating pent-up stress.

Joining a senior travel club will provide the opportunity to connect with others who have similar interests while fulfilling some of your life’s objectives.

Speak to a counselor

If you’re still struggling with feelings of anxiety and depression speaking with a licensed therapist might help. Not only are they good listeners, a professional counselor can help you work through your emotions and develop coping skills for dealing with life’s inevitable challenges.

Hire a personal assistant

Another way to stay active and socially engaged is by hiring a professional in-home caregiver from a licensed home care agency. Whether you need someone to talk to, help-out around the house or drop you off at the gym, your new “personal assistant” can help you find a renewed sense of purpose as you enjoy your golden years.

We Help Alabama Seniors Live Life to the Fullest

Helping an aging loved one enjoy a more fulfilling life can be hard when you’re busy or live far away. Contact Seniors Prefer Homecare and we’ll do the rest. As a fully licensed home care agency our compassionate caregivers love helping independent seniors live more fulfilling lives so they can continue aging comfortably in place right where they want to be. While serving as an extended family in the home our highly trained caregivers can perform in-home duties like personal care, companionship care, respite care and even 24-hour care.

And for your added convenience all our home care services can be flexibly combined into an affordable package when and where you need them! To learn more now about Seniors Prefer Homecare and our full menu of “cream of the crop” services in Huntsville and Tuscaloosa, AL, please visit us at: www.seniorspreferhomecare.com.