Elder Care Observances – Happiness Happens Month
Elder Care in Bernardsville NJ
Negativity and depressed mood are things that many elderly adults deal with as they get older. As a caregiver you already know that these can make a serious negative impact on their ongoing 
mental health and even cognitive function. Did you know, however, that it can also impact their physical health? August is Happiness Happens Month. This is the perfect time for you to find out more about the health and wellbeing benefits of positivity and positive thought, and to make efforts to help your parent to have a happier and more positive outlook. Through support, encouragement, and a targeted care approach, greater happiness and positivity is something that your parent can achieve with your help or the care of an elder care provider.
According to the Mayo Clinic, some benefits of positive thinking include:
- Longer life expectancy
- Decreased risk of depression
- Lower levels of emotional distress
- Stronger immune system and greater resistance to illness and infection, including the common cold
- Improved psychological wellbeing
- Reduced risk of serious health complications and death associated with cardiovascular disease
- Improve coping mechanisms and decision-making
- Better ability to manage stress and difficult situations
Let these ideas inspire you for some of the ways that you can help your parent maintain greater positivity and happiness as they age in place:
- Coloring. Break out the coloring books, crayons, and colored pencils. This relaxing, fun activity is no longer just for little ones. Adult coloring books are extremely popular these days and many studies have shown that engaging in coloring can reduce stress, improve mood, and strengthen the mind. Be sure to choose a book that has a theme your parent will enjoy.
- Plan regular outings. Having something to look forward to is always a great boost to the mood. Think of an activity or outing that your parent particularly enjoys and make it a point to schedule this activity at least once a week. This can be a special meal out, going to a movie, having a walk around the park, or playing board games. Just having this special time with you will make both of you happy, and knowing that it is coming will elevate their mood throughout the rest of the week.
- Watch something funny. The old phrase “laughter is the best medicine” had a lot of truth to it. Laughing releases endorphins that make you feel happier, release stress, and can even have cardiovascular benefits. Watch a funny movie with your parent, or even plan a visit to a comedy club so that the two of you can enjoy an evening of laughter together.
- Make others happy. Doing something that makes others feel happy is a fantastic way to elevate your loved one’s mood. Think of simple ways that your aging parent can make others happy, such as bringing bottles of bubbles for your children to play with, leaving uplifting bookmarks in books in the library, or writing a note to a friend or family member who lives far away.
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional elder care in Bernardsville, NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today. Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/positive-thinking/art-20043950
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