Many seniors have spent their lives taking care of others and haven't had the time to practice self-care activities for themselves. When we think of self-care today, it's easy to think only of facials and massages at a spa. While both activities can contribute to a relaxed mood for a short period of time, the importance for seniors to begin and establish a self-care routine for long-term benefits cannot be overstated. Creating a routine that is right for you not only results in positive health outcomes like lowered stress and anxiety but increases overall quality of life. Here are some self-care ideas to incorporate into your everyday routine as we head into summer:
Stay Hydrated
Seniors are vulnerable to becoming dehydrated due to body composition, decreased kidney function, and simply having less water in their bodies than they're used to, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
The general rule of thumb is to drink eight glasses of water per day. Our Hydration Stations located in each lobby at Commonwealth Senior Living have infused water with different fruits mixed in each day, offering a refreshing flavor. It's also important to make sure, as the weather gets warmer, to drink water while relaxing or being active outdoors.
Tip: Make infused water and place it in the refrigerator each evening for even more flavor the next day!
Incorporate Healthy Foods into Your Diet
While it is easy to grab a bag of chips or a cookie, we recommend satisfying your sweet tooth by giving your body the nutrients and long-lasting energy it's looking for. Incorporating fruits into your diet will curb sweet cravings and vegetables can be great heart-healthy snacks as well. At Commonwealth, we're proud to serve our residents fruits and vegetables as a part of our Farm-to-Table dining. Here are some quick snacks you can keep in the refrigerator or cupboard:
- Yogurt Parfaits with Fruit
- Mixed Nuts
- Frozen Grapes
- Edamame
- Popcorn
- Smoothies
- Guacamole & Plantains
Socialize
Prioritize the time you spend around others. A study from the American Psychology Association found that "maintaining interpersonal connections and creating a new routine socially is beneficial, especially for those who live alone." For you, this may look like joining a new club or setting aside Sunday nights to have dinner with your friends or family. This aspect of self-care looks different for everyone but is very important to maintain in an everyday routine.
Exercise
Incorporating any type of physical activity into your daily routine is ideal for your overall mood, keeping your mind sharp, and allowing your body to stay healthy. No matter your interests, there are many ways to stay active both indoors and outdoors during the summer:
Spend Time Outside
Spending time in nature is a fantastic way to practice self-care. Whether you are at a nearby park listening to the breeze in the trees around you or taking a stroll through your neighborhood, the overall health benefits are endless.
Tip: Finding a walking club in your area can be a great way to combine interacting socially with others and spending time in nature.
Get Involved in Your Community
Volunteering is a great way to help others, build a network of people in your area, and is an excellent practice of self-care. Researchers at the Mayo Clinic Health System say, "[volunteering] reduces stress and increases positive, relaxed feelings by releasing dopamine."
Tip: Find ways to get involved at your church, YMCA near you, soup kitchen, or other local organization.
Wear Sunscreen
While we know sunscreen is important to wear while lounging by the pool, we should also incorporate it into our daily skincare routine. Many seniors may not think of the harmful UV rays lingering each day, but the truth is, it's important to wear sunscreen whether planning to be inside a car or outside taking a walk. Some medications may make your skin especially sensitive to the sun and make it easier to get a sunburn. Be sure to ask your doctor if there are any extra steps you can take to keep your skin healthy.
Each of these tips can be incorporated into daily life outside of the summer months - even wearing sunscreen. What's most important is building a self-care routine that gives you the support you need. By prioritizing your health, connecting with others, and making time for yourself, you'll be able to enjoy the benefits of improved mental and physical health. At Commonwealth Senior Living, we offer our residents this healthy balance with lifestyles and support to meet them where they are.
To find out more about the balance we incorporate into everyday life, or to see what self-care looks like at Commonwealth, contact the community nearest you today.