No matter who we are or what profession we hold, stress is something we are bound to experience at some point or another. The sensation is never a welcome one, but stress really becomes a serious problem when it occurs over extended periods of time.
Chronic stress can lead to health concerns, which is a serious issue for older adults in particular. It’s important to be aware of easy ways for seniors to reduce stress so that it can be addressed as soon as it occurs. This should be to the benefit of not only your mental health, but your physical health too.
What impact does stress have on the body?
Stress does more than increase your anxiety for a little while. Those suffering from high levels of stress may experience an increased heart rate, heightened blood pressure, rapid breath, lack of sleep, and even a slowdown of their immune system. These issues in conjunction can lead to serious problems such as heart disease, asthma, depression, and gastrointestinal issues.
Knowing this information, it becomes abundantly apparent why it is so crucial to mitigate your stress as it arises. These three tips are easy to incorporate into your life and have been shown to make a substantial difference.
Try breathing exercises
Deep breaths have been shown to activate your parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for calming your body in times of stress. This makes breathing exercises especially potent for fighting stress. Slow, deep breaths can certainly help, but for an even stronger impact, you could try breathing exercises.
There is a wide range of exercises, but one great, easy-to-remember practice is the square breath. To do this, you inhale for four seconds, hold your breath for four seconds, exhale for four seconds, hold your breath for four seconds, and repeat the cycle. You’ll be surprised how quickly your heart rate returns to normal.
Spend time outside
Sunlight and fresh air can actually have a substantial impact on your mental and physical health. The weather in Arizona is gorgeous this time of year, so take advantage of that by going on regular walks around your neighborhood or local park. In addition to the fresh air, light exercise will also do wonders for your mood.
If taking walks isn’t as easy as it once was, you’re not out of luck. Even sitting on your front porch or in the backyard will make a difference.
Talk to your friends and family
Sometimes, all you need is a few minutes to vent about your stressors to feel better. Reach out to your family and friends, either with a simple phone call or to meet up later, and discuss your troubles with them. Make sure you thank them for lending a listening ear afterward.
Even if you don’t talk about what stresses you, spending time with your loved ones will help relieve problems such as stress, anxiety, and depression. Arranging for regular time spent together will do wonders for your stress levels.
To relieve your stress at home, hire an at-home caregiver
For many adults, much of the stress in their lives comes with maintaining their homes. Activities like cleaning, cooking, and even personal care may be more difficult than they once were. Don’t struggle through this alone. Hire the help of a direct care worker.
At Home Care Powered by AUAF, we pair seniors with the compassionate, dedicated direct care worker who can best support their needs. For more information on how these caregiving professionals can help improve your life, give us a call at (623) 526-6367.
