Hitting the age of 65 doesn’t mean that a senior has to slow down. But, as they age, their energy levels may not be what they once were. This can be a roadblock to enjoying their golden years, which can be both frustrating and discouraging.
Fortunately, there are steps seniors can take to boost their energy levels. Here are five that have proven to be effective that you can recommend to the senior in your life.
1. Get Physical
Though they may no longer be able to go for a jog, the senior in your life may be able to take a walk around the local high school track, the mall, or their neighborhood. Walking doesn’t require a large investment to get started, just the purchase of a good pair of walking shoes or sneakers.
Low impact aerobics and swimming are two other ways seniors can get their daily dose of exercise. Many senior centers offer these activities, or they can be done at home. Light stretching can also help keep them limber and flexible.
2. Eat and Drink Healthy
Though often overlooked, diet can significantly impact energy levels. Diets that are overly rich in carbohydrates, sugars, and processed foods can make them feel sluggish and groggy.
Better choices are foods rich in quality protein, vitamins, and lean fats. Whole food sources like tuna, turkey, chicken, eggs, and leafy greens can help them maintain consistent energy levels.
Caffeine and alcohol intake also needs to be enjoyed in moderation. Many people believe that drinking coffee increases energy levels. And one cup in the morning does help many people feel more awake. But consumed in large quantities, caffeine dehydrates the body, which can boost blood pressure and feelings of sluggishness.
Similarly, alcohol has the same effect. In addition to impairing cognitive functioning, alcohol is a depressant and will induce feelings of fatigue. As Benjamin Franklin said, “All things in moderation, nothing in excess.”
3. Play Brain Games
Just like the body, the brain also needs a good workout regularly. In addition to helping prevent dementia and cognitive decline, keeping the mind active helps minimize lethargy and sluggishness. Brain-focused games such as chess or scrabble are great choices, and many seniors enjoy crossword puzzles as well.
Many seniors grew up playing cards and dominoes with their parents and siblings. These are two fun pastimes that you can play together or with a small group. The concentration required in these games is good for their mental acuity, which in turn will help boost their energy levels.
4. Stay Connected
Spending time talking with family and friends helps people feel engaged, happy, and loved. It can also energize and alleviate feelings of lethargy. Encourage the senior in your life to pick up the phone and call family and friends on a regular basis.
Spending time together with them is also helpful for their energy levels. Talking while you walk together can help forge a stronger bond between you, as well as create lasting memories. If they aren’t mobile, just sitting with them and watching a movie together is a fun way to keep their mind engaged and enjoy time together.
5. Manage Stress
Aging is stressful. Many seniors have left the workforce and are stressed trying to fill the hours each day. They also are often facing physical ailments and illnesses they’ve never experienced before, which increases stress levels.
One helpful way they can deal with stress is exercise; another is meditation. Multiple studies have proven that there is a positive correlation between meditation and increased productivity and energy.
There are local meditation groups or yoga centers offering meditation sessions that seniors can participate in, as well as apps that can be used for quick, guided meditation to help them feel more energetic.
Compassionate Care & Customer Tailored Home Care Services
Help At Home can help provide the personal care seniors need to help boost and maintain healthy energy levels. We’ve been providing personalized in-home care for over 20 years. If you need assistance helping with home care for an aging family member, we can help.
When we talk together, you’ll receive personal attention on your very first call. Contact us today. We look forward to helping you and the special person in your life.