Recently, violence and conflict across the nation seem to be the focus of every news report. For everyone keeping up with current events, but especially for seniors, this can be mentally and physically damaging. For seniors experiencing cognitive decline, it can be difficult to sort out where and when violent events are happening, causing them to fear for their own safety. Many seniors have experienced trauma in their lives and disturbing news can trigger old memories. Seniors affected by stress-related health conditions, such as diabetes, high cholesterol, heart conditions, or high blood pressure, can be physically affected by the stress of repeatedly hearing disturbing news.
If your aging loved one is restless, fearful for their safety, having trouble sleeping, losing interest in their favorite activities, or constantly on edge, it may be due to the negative news cycle. As caregivers, it’s important to be aware of the effects that negative news can have on seniors and work to create a positive and peaceful environment. By actively promoting positivity every day, caregivers can help seniors protect their mental health.
The first step to finding the positive is to limit how much time is spent watching the news. Find a short program that summarizes current events to watch once a day and avoid keeping the news channel on as background noise. Instead, choose something relaxing to watch or listen to during the day, like a nature documentary, favorite sitcom, or classic movie. If your aging loved one has questions about current events, explain the situation simply while avoiding frightening details. Using a steady voice and a calm tone can help seniors regulate their emotions about distressing news.
Instead of focusing on current events, redirect your aging loved one’s attention to calming and positive activities.
- Ask them to tell stories about their past and look through photo albums together.
- Listen to their favorite music from their younger years while folding laundry, sorting cards, or doing some light gardening.
- Exercise with gentle movements or stretches. If the weather is nice, go on a nature walk and enjoy the fresh air.
- Create a quiet space for them to pray or meditate if it is meaningful to them.
- Provide physical comfort like holding hands or sitting near them.
- Point out the moments of joy that happen every day and celebrate them together.
While troubling events are difficult to hear about, spending time on positive activities can help seniors maintain their mental and physical health during hard times. For more aging and caregiver tips, reach out to Infinity Care Solutions at 877-337-0922 or Cassandra@InfinityCareManagers.com.
Find more caregiving and aging articles:
How Can You Keep Growing Personally After Retirement?
Recognizing the Signs: Symptoms and Complications of Diabetes
Recent Comments