Take a Deep Breath: Stress Relief Techniques for Seniors

By Martha Swats, Owner/Administrator, Comfort Keepers

(New Hampshire, October 2022)  

In many ways, stress is a part of life for all of us. But for seniors, stress can have a larger effect on physical and mental wellness.

Having worries and concerns is natural, but it is more important as we get older to practice stress-reduction techniques to manage these thoughts.

The great news is that stress, and the techniques to manage it, are usually easy for most people to practice. Meditation, breathing exercises, physical movement and other tactics can help seniors continue to live the best quality of life and can even improve overall wellness.

Why is it critical to manage stress?

As we continue to keep our homes and families safe during COVID-19, it’s even more important to focus on the mental health needs of our seniors when it comes to stress.

Several studies have shown that stress is linked to mental and physical problems, from anxiety and depression to hypertension and immune system complications. In fact, it’s estimated that stress increases the risk of heart disease by 40%, heart attack by 25%, and stroke by 50%. Not to mention the fact that stress can also exacerbate existing conditions – which can be very impactful for those with less efficient immune systems.

What can seniors do to manage their stress in a positive way?

As we get older, life can sometimes feel like one stressor after another. Whether it's health concerns, money worries, or simply the day-to-day physical grind, it's easy to let stress take over. But seniors shouldn't despair - there are plenty of ways to manage stress and find moments of joy.  Finding moments of joy and focusing on activities and hobbies that bring meaning and purpose can help seniors manage their stress. Fortunately, there are many more stress relief techniques that seniors can follow to help improve their own personal wellbeing. Some of the techniques our caregivers and senior clients use to manage their stress today can help better prepare them for any future stress.

Stress Relief Techniques

• Connection can help relieve stress. Seniors can call a friend or family member, have a video chat or spend time with loved ones when possible.
• Meditate at the same time every day or whenever feelings of stress or anxiety arise
• Practice deep breathing and mindfulness exercises
• Reach out to friends and family to connect and spend time together
• Follow a consistent exercise regimen and healthy diet, upon physician approval
• Journal or jot down thoughts and feelings at the end of each day – and be sure to take a moment to reflect on all the positive things that happened throughout the day
• Find a virtual volunteer opportunity to give back to the community
• Put together and execute a to-do list to increase productivity, decrease feelings of restlessness, and combat procrastination
• Join a yoga class or practice it at home (with physician approval)
• Listen to soothing or relaxing music, especially before bed
• Find a way to laugh, whether it’s by watching a funny TV show/movie or listening to a comedy album

Comfort Keepers® Can Help

At Comfort Keepers® New Hampshire, our professional care team is trained to identify changes in client behavior and report them to the family. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia, our caregivers can help them remain safe and comfortable at home, while providing everything from laundry and housekeeping to meal preparation and transportation. Learn more about how we can help seniors and other adult clients by contacting Comfort Keepers in Plymouth or Laconia ((603) 536-6060) today. If you would like us to call you back at more convenient time you can leave us a note here.

To help assess your loved ones needs and what steps you can take now, you are invited to take a short (3-5 minute) self-directed home care questionnaire.

About Comfort Keepers

Comfort Keepers is a leader in providing in-home care consisting of such services as companionship, transportation, housekeeping, meal preparation, bathing, mobility assistance, nursing services, and a host of additional items all meant to keep seniors living independently worry free in the comfort of their homes. Comfort Keepers have been serving New Hampshire residents since 2005. Let us help you stay independent.