Not every young adult experiences a quarter-life crisis, but those who do find it overwhelming and almost impossible to deal with. It’s very possible that you didn’t have to experience this earlier in life, but you may not have gotten away with other life challenges.
Without practical coping tools, you may feel lost. You may have even turned to detrimental coping mechanisms that only help temporarily.
You might feel like there’s no hope now that you’re a senior. But the reality is that it’s never too late to learn healthy coping strategies for older adults.
Read on for a guide to problem-focused coping in Southport, NC, so you can adopt positive aging habits.
Identify the Stressor Clearly
Before you rush into a solution, take a step back first and identify the stressor. Often, seniors face multiple challenges, and it can be muddy to sift through them all.
You’ll do yourself a big favor if you narrow down the specific issue, as it’ll provide you with clarity. This will empower targeted problem-solving.
If you’re not sure how to begin, then start keeping a journal to note what triggers stress. You can also use a “stress inventory” to list and prioritize your concerns, such as:
- Health
- Finances
- Mobility
- Relationships
Set Realistic, Actionable Goals
When you have vague concerns, this can cause unnecessary stress and anxiety. However, if you set goals, they’ll turn into manageable steps. As a result, you’ll prevent overwhelm and get a clear roadmap to move forward efficiently.
Our best tip for senior stress management is to break down problems into smaller parts; after all, a cookie is much easier to eat if you take bites rather than smash the whole thing into your mouth. For example, if your current issue is, “I need to get healthier,” try this instead: “I’ll walk ten minutes each day this week.”
We suggest setting SMART goals. SMART stands for:
- Specific
- Measurable
- Achievable
- Relevant
- Time-bound
Build a Routine for Control and Consistency
As you may already know, aging can bring unpredictability. Random things happening at random times can be unsettling, and it can feel like you’re losing control.
Building a routine can help restore a sense of order and predictability. This can be emotionally grounding, and you’ll feel mentally stronger.
In general, you should establish a consistent sleep, meal, and activity schedule. However, you should keep your routines flexible enough to accommodate your fluctuating energy levels and mobility.
For an extra boost, try integrating mental stimulation into the day. Things like crosswords, learning apps, and hobbies can improve your cognitive health and overall well-being.
Strengthen Health Through Proactive Measures
We’ve just covered mental health, but your physical health is important too. This is especially true since physical health challenges are common stressors in aging.
If you take action to strengthen your health, then it’ll empower you. It’ll make you feel like you’re managing your body, and not the other way around.
Try to stay current with medical checkups and follow treatment plans if applicable. Also, engage in low-impact exercise, such as:
- Walking
- Swimming
- Yoga
- Tai chi
In addition, improve your nutrition. Eat a diet rich in whole foods and hydrate yourself adequately.
Enhance Communication and Ask for Help
Unfortunately, many seniors hesitate to ask for help when they need it. Not only can they feel like it’s humiliating, but they also fear losing their independence.
However, asking for help is a strength. In fact, it’s problem-solving in action!
To get started, practice assertive communication. Use “I” statements to express your needs.
You should also seek out caregiving support groups, peer networks, or clergy (if you’re religious). If that’s not possible, then use technology to stay connected. For instance, you can use video calls or caregiver apps.
Learn New Skills or Technology
This might sound like adding new problems on top of existing ones, but it’s actually very beneficial. Keeping your mind engaged promotes neuroplasticity, and when you nail it, you’ll get a sense of accomplishment. Plus, if you have digital literacy or mobility issues, learning new skills or technology can address these challenges.
To start off, explore hobbies like:
- Photography
- Music
- Writing
- Digital art
These hobbies can help with emotional wellness in memory care.
You can take classes at the community center, too. For something simpler, opt for online classes.
While you’re at it, learn to use voice assistants (like Alexa or Siri) for easier daily navigation. It may feel strange at first, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
Create a Living Environment That Supports Independence
Your living environment is something you have to deal with all the time, and if it’s not to your liking, then your emotional health can suffer. When your environment works for you, then your daily challenges become easier to manage. As a result, safety improves.
First, rearrange essentials so they’re easy to reach without strain. After this, you may realize that you still need additional assistance.
In this case, install grab bars, brighter lighting, and non-slip rugs. You should also consider using assistive devices, such as:
- Walkers
- Pill organizers
- Hearing aids
If you’re still struggling, then you may have to consider residential senior living options. Not only will your accommodations be senior-friendly, but you’ll also have compassionate staff by your side.
Practice Self-Advocacy in Healthcare and Daily Life
Speaking up about your preferences and concerns will result in better outcomes and more satisfaction with care.
Start by bringing a trusted advocate to your appointments. You can also prepare a list of questions before doctor visits so you don’t forget anything important.
In addition, you can learn about patient rights and elder care resources. When you have knowledge in the field, it’ll be easier to speak up.
Practice Problem-Focused Coping
All too often, we go through crises and have strong emotional responses. They often aren’t effective, so it’s best to use problem-focused coping instead.
With the above tips, you can directly address the sources of your stress. This can then empower you to take control of the challenges that come with aging.
TerraBella Southport has been named Best Assisted Living Community by the US News & World Report. Contact us today if you’re interested in senior living in Southport, NC.
