As we get older, we go through changes both physically and mentally that can have an impact on our confidence and self-esteem. With seniors, it’s not uncommon for their self-confidence to be shaken because they no longer feel they can care for themselves or do all of the things they used to do. Particularly for shut-ins or those who live in retirement communities, this loss of self-esteem can be compounded when the lifestyle they were used to has been dramatically changed. One of the surest ways to show your senior some love is to help them be comfortable and promote happiness and joy in their lives. Here are some ways help guide them to promote their self-esteem.
Be More Social
One of the best ways to feel good is to spend time with others. Help your senior promote social activities by planning visits with family and friends. Also, if your family hosts an annual or semi-annual reunion, make sure that your senior family member can attend. Continuing contact with family and friends is essential to maintaining happiness.
Finally, consider helping your family member make meaningful connections in the community. Churches and libraries are a great place to find social activities such as reading groups or other meetings that spark their interest and can connect them with others. Even something as simple as a monthly coffee club or dinner out can go a long way towards helping to improve self-esteem.
Engage in Conversation
Sometimes it can be hard to know what to say. A great way to promote active conversation is with board games. Naturally, playing a board game encourages conversation if, by no other reason, people will talk about the game. A weekly board game date with the senior in your life not only promotes conversation, it’s also fun. Strategy games such as chess or checkers can also promote cognitive activity that is very important with older family members.
Find a Project
Another way to help foster confidence and self-esteem is to find a new project, preferably one that you can do together. This can be anything from learning a new language, trying a new type of food (maybe learning to cook sushi or French cuisine), or taking up a new craft, such as painting. With painting, many locations are popping up across the country that offer painting classes topped off by a glass of wine.
Other craft ideas can be found by browsing stores such as Hobby Lobby or Michael’s. Many libraries offer reading groups that will help your senior discover new authors and subjects. If failing eyesight is an issue, public libraries offer lots of audiobooks, This might be an activity your senior family member has never considered before!
The lifestyle and physical changes that come along with aging can be hard for seniors to accept. This can lead to a decline in confidence because they can’t do things the same way they would like to. By staying active and promoting happiness, you can help your senior maintain a positive outlook for years to come. All it takes is showing them a little love.