Many Senior Citizens Are Not in a Position to Leave Their Homes During COVID-19.
What Can Senior Do to Maintain Their Mental Health During This Pandemic?
For seniors, COVID-19 can be harder to deal with than it is for many other demographics. With limited access to transportation and less access to technology, many are having trouble coping with the isolation that comes with stay-at-home orders. Couple that with the constant fear of getting sick and you can see where it could lead to depression and anxiety.
Here are some tips for seniors to help them deal with depression and anxiety during the COVID-19 outbreak:
Stay on a Consistent Sleep Schedule
Your body needs rest so help it out by getting up early and getting to bed on time.
Get Some Exercise
Depending on your physical limitations, try to stay active – even if that means taking a walk around the house once an hour. Be consistent with getting exercise.
Get Outside
When weather permits, get out and take a walk in your neighborhood. Be sure to stay 6 feet away from others. Natural light and fresh air will do wonders for your mood.
Limit Alcohol and Tobacco Intake
Use alcohol and tobacco in moderation to remain in good mental health.
Limit Exposure to News and Media
You want to be informed, but you don’t want to be in a state of constant exposure to news that might cause you stress. Stay prepared, but once you’ve got the information you need, turn the TV off.
Stay Spiritual
If you attend a religious service, try to find your place of worship online and continue to pursue your spiritual path.
Connect
Whether it is by phone or by Facebook, human interaction is still vital. Find time to have conversations with loved ones and help your mental health by checking in on others.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
If things get bad and you aren’t able to get peace, don’t wait until it’s too late to get help. If you feel like you can’t get help and are having thoughts of hurting yourself, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).
You are not alone. Remember that. Reach out to others and know that we will be able to get back to our routines and our daily lives eventually. Until then, participate in good mental health practices to stay safe!