How to Stay Mentally Fit as You Age

(Summary: Here is how elders can stay mentally fit by socializing, following the right diet, and playing the games.)

Nearly 20% of adults aged 55 or older have some type of mental illness like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, an eating disorder or dementia (being the major one). Most of these mental health concerns are triggered by alcohol or substance abuse, the loss of a spouse, long term illness, physical disability, poor diet or a change of environment. Luckily, there are many ways elders can stay mentally fit and minimize the occurrence of these mental illnesses. Here we have outlined some simple activities and tasks seniors can do at home to improve their mental health.

Stay Socially Connected:

Seniors should be socially active. The more they interact with people, the better they feel. They can join groups and clubs, have dinner with loved ones, talk on the phone and build relationships with neighbors. This way, they can feel positive and stay engaged.

Get a Pet:

Keeping a pet like a dog or cat is a wonderful way to combat loneliness, which is important because loneliness is one of the causes of mental illness among seniors. Animals make elders more engaged, less stressed and less agitated. In fact, pet therapy has been recognized as an effective treatment for aged adults with mental and physical health concerns.

Play Games:

Playing games like crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, Sudoku and word puzzles can help to keep the brain healthy and stimulated. What about starting a bridge club with your friends?

Stay in Touch with a Mental Health Counselor:

These health counselors help aged adults avoid isolation and find useful activities to improve their cognitive abilities.

Follow the Right Diet:

Your diet plays a vital role in supporting the mind. Add the right vitamins, and veggies to your diet. Leafy greens, walnuts, yogurt, berries and oily fish are great foods for seniors.

You must understand how to take care of your mental health as you age. It is best to consult a mental health counselor to plan care specific to your mental health.