Self-care is a popular buzzword, but what does it mean? Images of bubble baths, pedicures, and shopping may come to mind. Still, self-care is so much more than occasionally treating yourself–it’s about caring for your overall wellbeing every day.
Self-care is crucial for seniors–who may experience age-related health issues, the death of a spouse or peers, or separation from their family.
In this blog post, Maranatha Village of Springfield, MO, explores three essential dimensions of self-care for seniors living in retirement communities.
Physical Self-Care
With age comes an inevitable susceptibility to health issues–but there are a lot of seniors can do to care for their physical health.
The CDC recommends at least 150 minutes a week of moderate exercise for seniors aged 65 or older without any limiting health conditions. Because self-care is about both mental and physical wellbeing, seniors should engage in activities they enjoy while living in retirement communities.
Seniors can walk, do yoga or tai chi, swim, or do water aerobics or Zumba! Here at Maranatha Village in Springfield, MO, our residents enjoy taking walks around our lake, taking in the scenery and wildlife.
Emotional Self-Care
Emotional and psychological self-care is just as important as physical self-care, and the two go hand-in-hand. According to the CDC:
“Older adults are at increased risk for loneliness and social isolation because they are more likely to face factors such as living alone, the loss of family or friends, chronic illness, and hearing loss.”
Seniors can care for their emotional wellbeing by learning to recognize when they’re feeling depressed, lonely or anxious, and doing what makes them feel comforted and supported. Emotional self-care options may include calling or visiting a loved one, turning to friends in their retirement communities for support, or solitary actions, including going for walks in nature or reading a fascinating book.
Spiritual Self-Care
Spirituality is an important part of life for many people, and they can incorporate it into a self-care routine to increase wellbeing. Studies show that a sense of purpose and meaning may improve mental health, and seniors can find this in spiritual practice.
The retirement community at Maranatha Village has an on-site chapel, regular church services and bible studies, opportunities to sing in the choir, and faith-based volunteer opportunities.
Retirement Community at Maranatha Village
At Maranatha Village, we want to ensure your golden years are spent feeling safe, stress-free, and socially connected. We offer versatile senior living options including houses, duplexes, and apartments. To learn more about what we have to offer, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us or call (417)-883-0016.
