Mindfulness can provide a therapeutic counterbalance to the challenges and changes associated with aging.
Mindfulness: A Quick Primer
Mindfulness is the cultivation of a non-judgemental awareness of the present moment. It encourages you to become cognizant of your thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and the surrounding environment. The aim of this is to switch your brain off auto-pilot mode to achieve a sense of relaxation and connection to the present moment.
The Rise of Mindful Aging
In recent years, there has been a surge of interest in the topic of mindful aging. This approach to aging is seen to offer a positive counter to the many negative views that people hold about aging. This is because mindful aging encourages older people to accept rather than fear the process of getting older. As such, many people over 65 have found mindfulness to be an effective coping tool for dealing with the challenges and changes that naturally occur as you age.
The Benefits of Mindfulness for Older Adults
Several studies have highlighted the health benefits of mindfulness specifically for older adults. Some of these include:
- Better sleep quality
- Improved memory retention
- Fewer feelings of anxiety and stress
- Lower blood pressure
- Improved coping skills for chronic illnesses
Find Out More About Mindfulness for Older Adults
If you are keen to learn more about mindful aging, then you should take a look at the infographic below which comes courtesy of the team at Be Independent Home Care. This helpful graphic offers a jargon-free guide to mindfulness and its many merits for older adults.
Scroll down to the infographic to learn more.