Older adults are supposed to be in a stage of life where they can relax, reflect and start doing hobbies that they love. However, growing older is not always perfect. With age, comes the loss of friends and family, a decline in health, and sometimes financial hardship. It can be difficult for older adults who have arthritis, chronic illness, limited mobility, or memory impairment.
While aging is inevitable, feelings of despair and sadness don’t necessarily have to be a part of the process. Many studies have shown the link between practicing gratitude and greater happiness, no matter what one’s circumstances are. Being grateful can transform someone’s life completely. Here are some benefits older adults can enjoy when they practice gratitude. Read on to learn more about living gratefully as you age!
Improves Health
Being grateful will do wonders for a person’s health. Many older adults experience chronic illness, insomnia, pain, and feelings of depression. Gratitude can lead to less depression, better sleep, and helps with chronic illness. It eases pain, reduces headaches, and is an effective way to cope with stress. Grateful people are more likely to exercise and eat healthier foods, another boost for their health.
Strengthens Relationships
Practicing gratitude strengthens current relationships and increases social connections. Those who are often grateful look for the good in others, instead of looking at their negative attributes. They are more pleasant to be around, so friends and family will want to visit them. They are likely to say hi to a stranger in the store or volunteer where help is needed. The older adult will be more connected socially, so they feel less lonely and isolated.
Expands Life’s Meaning
Many seniors find it hard to find a purpose in their lives after they retire. Cultivating gratitude allows them to see the bigger picture. When people choose to be grateful for the little things, they get a sense of the wider purpose of life.
Improves Memory
Older people tend to worry about the health of their brains. But practicing gratitude can help you to improve your memory. People who are grateful are better at recalling past experiences in a positive manner. They appreciate the good times and are better equipped to handle difficult times. As you sip your coffee, spend some time reflecting on the previous day. Then, think about ten things you are grateful for yesterday.
Builds Self-Esteem
Gratitude builds self-esteem. Just like how older adults experience a lull in their life after retirement, they are likely to struggle with low self-esteem in their later years. A change in appearance contributes to this, as well as feeling neglected by their family members. Practicing gratitude reminds people that they are valuable and decreases social comparison.
With so many benefits of gratitude, it is time to start trying it. All you have to do is start a gratitude journal. This will surely make a huge difference in your life.
Experience Lakeside At Mallard Landing
Lakeside At Mallard Landing is a retirement community that is a great place to live as you age. Feel free to contact us for more information.
