Let’s call a spade a spade: Getting older is not always easy.

It seems like just yesterday you were young and waking up with a spring in your step. But this morning, unexplained back pain replaced your alarm, and you have one knee that cracks every time you walk upstairs. Suddenly, you don’t feel as young and active as you once were, and you wonder who the person staring back at you in the mirror is.

The older we get, the more time we spend alone, which can add to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Older adults especially run the risk of developing mental health disorders. In fact, it is estimated that some 20% of people aged 55 or older experience some type of mental health concern, such as anxiety or mood disorders, such as depression.

The good news is that mental health doesn’t have to be another thorn in your side while you navigate aging gracefully. There are ways to prioritize your mental and emotional health so you can feel your best while keeping a positive outlook at any age.

Don’t listen to anyone who says your best years are behind you; maybe they’re just beginning. We’ve compiled five easy ways older adults can better their mental health.

1. Journal. Journaling is a powerful, science-backed tool to promote mental health. Not only does it stimulate creativity, but it can help reduce mental clutter and healthily process negative experiences. For older individuals specifically, journaling can help to recall memories while keeping the brain sharp and active. One study showed that those who journal regularly experience more restful, higher-quality sleep.
    
2. Therapy. Therapy can be an extremely beneficial tool to thwart mental health issues in older adults. There is a lot to unpack emotionally as we get older, from experiencing age-related health issues to the overall transitions within the complex aging process. A therapist can help you process and cope with growing older in healthy ways, whether it’s having an “empty nest,” losing parents, or developing a more positive outlook on life.
    

3. Connect with friends or family. We didn’t realize at the time that one day, the sounds of family bickering around the house or the stress of cleaning messes would someday be a fond memory. The older we get, the less we see those we love most and spend more time alone. Reach out to that friend or family member who’s been on your mind — you’ve likely been on theirs, too. 

   That’s why reconnecting with friends or family is one effortless way to boost mental health. Modern technology like social media and FaceTime have made it possible for us to stay connected with loved ones across the globe.

4. Volunteer. If family or friends are out of reach, consider making new friends by volunteering at a local nonprofit organization that’s making a difference in your community. There is no shortage of nonprofits and worthwhile causes to support. Volunteering your time and service supports your physical, emotional, and mental health.
    
5. Play brain games. Just as the body needs physical activity to stay healthy, the mind needs stimulation to stay sharp and avoid age-related memory loss. Harvard Health Publishing suggests that brain games can help fine-tune certain thinking skills, such as processing speed and reaction time, and improve short-term memory. Activities that engage the brain with problem-solving activities—such as reading or learning a new language or skill—can improve cognitive ability and ward off mental health disorders.

Become An IntuneHealth Patient Today

IntuneHealth is a new approach to healthcare for adults on a Medicare Advantage plan. We specialize in caring for adults 65+ and offer proactive, preventive primary care to keep you healthy — including walk-in visits and same-day appointments for patients — so you can spend more time living your best life. 

We also offer events and programs to keep our patients healthy, active and connected, from yoga to cooking classes. Make sure to book your one-on-one tour of your local center, or call us today at 1 (844) 646-8863!