Physical autonomy and maintaining a certain level of intellectual activity are major challenges for the elderly.
As time goes by, stimulating them is no easy task and requires a certain amount of effort on a daily basis.
Let’s take a look at the various ways in which you can help seniors maintain their independence, without too much difficulty!
Stimulating a senior’s physical independence
Elderly people often struggle to maintain regular daily physical activity. And yet it’s the best way to maintain your independence for as long as possible.
In fact, physical inactivity is a vector for many ailments that often end up being prohibitive in this respect.
One example is the loss of muscles. Reduced joint flexibility. And lack of flexibility in the legs, as well as balance problems. The consequence will be a lack of coordination that will inevitably disrupt overall physical autonomy.
There are a number of simple solutions:
- The first is to take one walk a day to go shopping or buy bread, for example.
- The second is to be physically active. Several times a week, taking care that it’s adapted to your own physical condition and intrinsic possibilities. This could include light walking, playing pétanque, swimming or aqua aerobics.
These activities are ideal for stimulating independence!
You’ll need to be vigilant in hot weather, and not insist if you feel any pain. In all cases, it’s essential to consult your doctor beforehand.
As a general rule, thirty minutes of physical activity a day is more than enough to keep seniors independent.
It could also involve doing some fairly physical household chores, such as vacuuming or outdoor gardening.
Keeping seniors intellectually active
Over time, and especially after the age of sixty, memory problems are likely to appear in senior citizens.
It may be standard aging of the brain, but also the beginnings of a neurodegenerative disease. The best-known of these is Alzheimer’s disease, which can currently only be alleviated if not fully treated and cured.
An excellent way to stimulate memory is to play games such as scrabble or chess.
In general, playing any board game can stimulate brain activity and prevent memory problems from developing too quickly.
In residence, several activities are organized to encourage seniors.
Doing a few mental calculations rather than getting out your calculator is also excellent, as is reading books or newspapers.
It goes without saying that a healthy diet is essential, as deficiencies can lead to a reduction in intellectual faculties and therefore memory. Physical activity also helps to clear the mind and improve brain function.
