No matter our age, it is important to consider all aspects of our wellbeing when it comes to our health. This means making an effort to take care of both our physical and mental health and being aware of the risks to our health as our lives change. As we age, we become particularly vulnerable to mental health issues. This is because our routines change dramatically post-retirement, our bodies age and we can suffer from memory problems and cognitive decline. All of this can have a negative impact on our mental health if we are not conscious of looking after ourselves.

1. Exercise Your Brain

A challenged brain is a happy brain and it is important to keep this in mind as we, and our family members age. When you’re working, you may find you have a lot of mental stimulation, but when we retire we may find that we are not be able to do some of the activities we use to do. Remember that the brain is a muscle and it needs stimulation and activity to stay fit and functional. A lack of activity can lead to feelings of hopelessness and sadness so making an effort to keep your mind engaged is one way of looking after your mental health. Some good activities include reading and writing, jigsaw puzzles, crosswords, solving riddles, playing and instrument or learning a new skill.

2. Exercise Your Body

Regular light exercise is not only good for your physical health, it can also make a big difference to your mental health. When we get our heartbeat up and move our bodies, our brain releases endorphins that make us feel happier. While you may feel less mobile as you age, it is still important to make an effort to go for a walk, a swim or attend a gym class. Improving your physical health can help to give you more confidence in your body and reduce your risk of falling which can in turn improve your mental health and self-esteem.

3. Spend Time With Family and Friends

Humans are social creatures and regular social contact is essential to our mental health. As people age, they can become increasingly isolated, especially as family members move or friends pass away. It is important to devise a routine that ensures you get the chance to see your friends and family, even if it’s just for a coffee or a quick walk. Find a way to be included and encourage your friends and family to drop by if you struggle with driving or visiting others. If you live in an aged care facility, make sure to talk to other residents and get to know the people in your community. Keep in mind that you can make friends at any age!

4. Try New Things

Trying new things and learning new skills is a great way to keep your brain engaged and also helps with mental health by giving you new challenges and injecting excitement into your routine. One of the great things about living in an aged care facility like Kew Gardens is the opportunity you have to participate in different activities. Make the most of this by being open to new activities, whether it be ballroom dancing, learning a language or bird watching. You may find a new talent and get the chance to engage with people who have similar interests to you.

5. Get Plenty of Rest

Sleep is crucial to good mental health and gives our bodies a chance to relax and reset. It is important to listen to your body as you age and to make sure that you are getting enough rest. If you feel tired or lethargic, don’t push your body to do more than you can. While it is important to make time for exercise and social interaction, there is no point going to the gym if your body is exhausted. Instead, get the rest that you need to be able to do the things you love. Try and go to bed at the same time each night and wake up at the same time each morning so you body can get the sleep it needs.

It is important to be vigilant about our mental health as we get older. Keep your body physically healthy, stay socially active and find ways to keep your mind and brain engaged and you will enjoy great mental health in your senior years.