Self care gets a lot of attention these days, but it’s rarely talked about in the context of seniors’ needs. However, self-care is just as important—or even more so—for older adults as it is for everyone else.
What Does Self-Care for Seniors Look Like?
At its most basic, practicing self-care means taking steps to promote and maintain one’s health, happiness, and overall well-being. Although self-care routines and habits often vary from person to person, the main goals and categories of self-care are usually the same. For elderly individuals, a good self-care practice should include the following:
Taking care of physical health. As we age, our bodies’ abilities and needs change. For example, muscle and bone strength naturally deteriorate with age, which can make falls more dangerous. For that reason, cultivating an exercise habit that helps to maintain and build strength and balance is essential. Age and other factors (such as medication) can also change seniors’ appetites and their ability to absorb certain types of nutrients. As a result, eating a healthy diet is particularly important for older adults.
Taking care of mental and emotional health. Factors like loss of mobility, illness, and lack of access to transportation can make it difficult for seniors to stay socially connected. As a result, older adults (particularly those who are homebound) are at a high risk for loneliness and social isolation, which can take a serious toll on their well-being. Those same factors may make it hard for seniors to participate in meaningful and/or stimulating activities, which can contribute to cognitive decline.
FSL's Caregiver Services Teach Self-Care Strategies for Everyone
For seniors who aren’t able to live independently, it’s often up to their caregivers to assist them with self-care activities.
Particularly for new caregivers or those who might not have experience providing care to older adults, knowing how to best help their loved ones with self-care can be confusing, even overwhelming.
To help demystify senior self-care, FSL offers a variety of caregiver services and education programs. From dementia awareness to our “Gravity. Don’t Let It Win!” fall prevention course to long-term care and beyond, our goal is to equip caregivers with the knowledge and tools they need to address their loved ones’ needs (and their own).
We also recognize and appreciate the work that caregivers put into their duties—often at the expense of their own health and well-being. For that reason, FSL also offers caregiver-focused programs and resources, such as our “What About You?” course. These teach caregivers how to protect their own mental, physical, and emotional health, thus ensuring that caregiving is both sustainable and fulfilling for them.
If you or someone you know could benefit from our caregiver services and education, don’t hesitate to reach out and learn more about how we can help.
About FSL
Established in 1974, FSL is dedicated to providing integrated, customized care for those who need it in the Phoenix area. We offer a wide range of home- and community-based services, including:
- Affordable housing options
- Nutritious meal programs
- Health & Wellness programs
- Senior centers
- Recreation programs
- Support for caregivers
These services are designed to enable Arizonans of all ages to live happier, healthier, more independent lives. So, if you or someone you know is struggling to have their needs met, don’t hesitate to contact us and find out how we can help you. And if you’re looking to give back, consider donating or volunteering your time to our mission. We can’t wait to work with you!
