Take care of your mental health during lockdown
The lockdown that has been imposed by the Covid-19 outbreak has made us think about how important it is to take care of your mental health whilst either in isolation, or just unable to socialise and interact with others in person for a long period of time. Here are some useful tips for the elderly for taking care of your mental health during these periods which can be relevant and applied now, or during future periods of isolation.
Exercise
Exercise is incredibly important for the physical and mental wellbeing of the elderly as our friends at Birchwood Care Services discuss in more detail and it becomes even more important at a time like this when so many people are struggling with their mental health during the lockdown.
If you are able to, go for a walk outside – every day if you can or perhaps an exercise DVD in your own home. You could even take this a step further by completing an online class – something like Yoga can be great for body and mind! If you’re stuck then Joe Wicks has some excellent workout classes for seniors.
Eat well
Health and nutrition as we know is an important part of life here at Birchwood House and it becomes even more important during periods of isolation as good nutrition can have such an impact on an individual’s mental health and wellbeing.
Stay connected
Keeping in contact with the outside world is another really important way of ensuring mental health and wellbeing during lockdown. None of us would have predicted 12 months ago quite how popular and widely used Zoom and Facetime would be now, but they are excellent ways to stay connected to the outside world.
Whether it’s a games night with friends, or a Facetime call with the grandchildren, make sure you’re taking advantage of the available technology and staying as connected as you can to friends and family.
Take up a new hobby
You may well have already done this but there are a multitude of hobbies you could take up and carry out in the comfort of your own home. Here are a few ideas:
- Learn a new language – This may not be as easy to pick up as when you were younger, but is a fantastic skill and will keep your mind sharp!
- Take up knitting – Knitting is a great hobby that can be done in the comfort of your own home. And if you get really good then you could have all of your grandchildren’s Christmas presents sorted!
- Trace your family tree – This can be a time consuming task but could also be of great interest and you never know who you may track down…
- Gardening – Not only does this get you fresh air and exercise, but you will have a fabulous looking garden when lockdown is over!
Get fresh air
Fresh air is another key component to good mental health. As our friends at Birchwood Care Services explain, fresh air promotes happiness. Happiness in turn leads to positive mental health for an individual.
It may not always be easy to get fresh air if you are avoiding contact with the outside world, but if you have a garden or balcony, try to use these and take advantage of them, or if you have neither of these then perhaps sit by an open window and read a book. However you do it, some form of fresh air will aide your mood and subsequently your mental health.
We hope this is a useful guide not only for now but if you or a friend or relative find yourself having to isolate at some point in the future.
Other articles you may like
- Birchwood holds a fun-filled Mad Hatter’s tea party.
Bringing a sense of fun and magic for residents this Easter. The staff at Birchwood House held a quirkyContinue reading “Birchwood holds a fun-filled Mad Hatter’s tea party.” - Birchwood ‘a natural choice’ for Kathleen’s mum
Choosing a home for a loved one is a considered decision, but one that Kathleen Holmwood made with ease.Continue reading “Birchwood ‘a natural choice’ for Kathleen’s mum” - The benefits of using the internet and modern technology
Since the arrival of Covid-19 and having to live through lockdown in the last 12 months, the reliance onContinue reading “The benefits of using the internet and modern technology” - What care options are available for those in later life?
Families going through the emotional stress of placing a spouse or relative into care, often tell us they findContinue reading “What care options are available for those in later life?” - Virtual tours help relatives find the right care
We’re well aware of the impact that Covid-19 has had on searching for a care home for a lovedContinue reading “Virtual tours help relatives find the right care” - The skills and attributes you need to be a good carer
The skills and attributes needed to be a good carer. Whether you’re looking for a good care provider orContinue reading “The skills and attributes you need to be a good carer” - White Christmas had by all at Birchwood
Pulling out the stops for a fun and festive December. We went all out to make sure it wasContinue reading “White Christmas had by all at Birchwood” - Maintaining positivity for residents and homecare clients
Well-being first for staff, residents & clients. We’re delighted to kick off a new initiative to show the smilingContinue reading “Maintaining positivity for residents and homecare clients” - Brightening up the afternoon for one lucky winner
Afternoon tea winner announced, courtesy of Birchwood chef Anne Jones We wanted to do something to brighten up someone’sContinue reading “Brightening up the afternoon for one lucky winner”
