Mental health issues can affect people at any age, but it’s fair to say that different generations have unique concerns. As we become older, mental health can go into decline as we start to lose some normal functionality and elements of our support network. Nursing homes can help.
Stress Reduction
The human body has a natural stress response system that helps us to avoid danger in evolutionary terms. When we encounter a large dog, for instance, the brain’s hypothalamus region triggers an alarm that releases the stress hormone cortisol as well as adrenaline.
In the past, these hormones might have saved our lives, but when they are always on, in th case of chronic stress, it can lead to anxiety, depression, and lower life expectancy. This is common in older people, but a nursing home takes much of the stress out of everyday life.
Social Connections
One of the reasons many people fall into depression and negative thinking patterns is because of a lack of social connections. When we don’t have enough quality social connections, we can start to feel lonely and underappreciated. Of course, this is a common issue in older people too.
One of the excellent advantages of a nursing home is the social connections people have; not only does a nursing home give older people a chance to meet and connect with others like them, there are plenty of opportunities to take up a new hobby or interest to support health.
Physical Health
Older people have physical requirements that can be met in a nursing home. Whether someone needs help with washing, toileting, or getting around, or they need access to natural surroundings for walks and hobbies, a nursing home caters for these requirements and more.
Like mental and emotional wellbeing, physical health is foundational for overall health and life quality. Unlike private residences, people living in nursing homes have access to trained staff members ready to help them engage in physical activity or help with their general movements.
Better Meals
Some older people struggle to maintain a healthy diet because of their lifestyle, connections, and conditions. This is unfortunate because a healthy diet is another cornerstone of healthy living. When someone lives in a nursing home, they have a chance to eat better meals daily.
Nursing homes pride themselves on providing their residents with high-quality meals there times a day, so instead of missing a meal due to a health condition or preparing substandard foods for themselves, they can spend more time enjoying their lives and have meals cooked for them.
Supportive Conditions
Overall, a nursing home creates the best supportive conditions for people in their later years. Instead of struggling to maintain independence in their homes, older people can leave the work to someone else and enjoy their time more fully. This improves their health and quality of life.
Overall, Respite care for elderly supports the quality of life for older people by providing a framework for a healthy and supportive lifestyle. Whether an older person needs a social network, an understanding listener, or some help with physical mobility, trained staff are there.
Photo by Dominik Lange on Unsplash
Author: Mandy Kloppers
Mandy is a qualified therapist who treats depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, trauma, and many other types of mental health issues. She provides online therapy around the world for those needing support and also provides relationship counselling.
