At The Windsor Senior Living we understand that this is a challenging time for us all. It can be even more challenging for those who are experiencing stress and anxiety. These are natural reactions to the stressful and turbulent times we’re facing. But thankfully, we can face these challenges together. Below, we explain the signs of anxiety and stress. We also give you some healthy ways to cope with these feelings. 

Know the Signs

Outbreaks can be a very stressful time, especially for at-risk groups. This anxiety and stress can manifest in a lot of different ways. Fear and anxiety about COVID-19 can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions. Despite this fact, some of the ways seniors communicate stress isn’t as obvious as you’d think. The Centers for Disease Control recommends keeping an eye out for signs of stress.

Stress during an infectious disease outbreak can include:

• Fear and worry about your own health and the health of your loved ones
• Changes in sleep or eating patterns
• Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
• Worsening of chronic health problems
• Worsening of mental health conditions
• Increased use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs

Communicate Feelings

Oftentimes, we find it difficult to talk about complex or difficult emotions. Unfortunately, stress and anxiety fall into this category. That means it might be even more difficult for our seniors to communicate how they are feeling. Therefore, staying in touch with your loved ones is that much more important. Know that mental health conditions are not your fault, and it’s normal to feel this way about a disease. Reassure your loved ones by validating their feelings and listening to them. Having an outlet for these types of things is crucial for decompression. 

How You Can Support Yourself

Having the tools and resources to support yourself during the pandemic is paramount for your mental health. In fact, you should be looking out for your own well-being before you try to help someone else. Once you’ve taken the time to internalize some of these practices, try supporting the ones around you. Follow these tips to ensure you’re both physically and mentally fit during these stressful times. 

• Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories—including social media. 
• Take care of your body.
• Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate.
• Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals.
• Exercise regularly.
• Get plenty of sleep.
• Avoid alcohol and drugs.
• Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
• Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.

Premier Senior Living In Slidell

The Windsor Senior Living Community is a senior living facility near Slidell. And we are dedicated to your loved ones’ physical and mental health. During these times, we’re taking extra measures to ensure the safety of all the ones you love. That includes stress management and related activities. For any additional questions that you might have, check out the FAQ section of our website or send us a brief message via our contact page. 

When times are hard, it’s the little things that really make it all worth it. And that’s true no matter what age we are. Every day, we see our residents have their little victories. And, even though things are looking up, we can all do our part to give them more little victories. Discover more from The Windsor Senior Living Community, an independent living community near New Orleans. To us, life is more than just making it through the day. Let’s do our own part to make their days easier.

Something To Show You Care

Our daily comforts help our lives go much easier. But, what may be comforting to you may not be comforting to another person. And that’s especially true for someone outside your age group. But, that doesn’t mean all hope is lost. All it takes is a little thought.

Some comforts present themselves in simple ways. Perhaps your mother really enjoyed lighting candles. But now she can tend to forget about them and a lit candle is a real hazard. So—what can you do? A great alternative is flameless candles. These offer the same flicker and are completely safe. Also, if the scent is something they’re searching for, you can always pair it with a scent plugin. In general, think about their favorite things. And if these things aren’t possible anymore—look for safe, senior-friendly alternatives.

On the other hand, some of the best gifts are practical ones—something they can use in everyday life. But, when you’re living in an independent living community near New Orleans, what do you even need? While we do provide more than just the essentials, that doesn’t mean our residents don’t have their own personal items. Think about what could be useful to them. For example, does the senior in your life use a walker? If they do, they can use a walker bag. This way, things won’t fall out of their pockets anymore, and they won’t have to go back to their room to get something. 

So, whether you’re gifting for practicality or for comfort, you can’t go wrong as long as it’s from the heart. Do your research and find the proper gift for your senior in our independent living near New Orleans. 

Gift Ideas For Father’s Day

The nearest holiday coming our way is Father’s Day. If you usually wait to get a present until the last second, we have some ideas to help you. There are a few items you just can’t go wrong with. For example:

• Cologne. Just because you’re older doesn’t mean you can’t feel good about yourself. So, give the senior in your life a sense of normalcy by giving them their favorite scent.
• Clothes. Although we hate getting clothes as a kid, who doesn’t love clothes as an adult? Choosing between slippers, a new shirt, or even some comfy socks—your dad or grandfather is sure to love it.
• A useful piece of tech. We know how technology can make a senior’s life easier. But instead of something big, why not something small? Surprise your dad with something fun like an Alexa, or something useful, like a heated blanket.

Find Out More From Our Independent Living Community near New Orleans

For more gift ideas and different ways to connect to the senior and your life, make sure to keep up with our blog. If you have any questions about our independent living community near New Orleans, feel free to get in contact. Give us a call at 985-624-8040 or send us a message online. Let’s work together to make life a little easier for the seniors in our lives.