Supporting Your Loved One This International Stress Awareness Week

The first week of November every year marks International Stress Awareness Week, an awareness event aimed at drawing attention to stress and mental health problems, as well as promoting support services that people can benefit from.

Stress and mental health problems have never been more important than now, and the challenges they present are never more acute than in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Many researchers found two-thirds of adults feeling ‘very worried’ about the effect COVID-19 is having on their life. The most common issues affecting wellbeing are worry about the future, feeling stressed or anxious, and feeling bored.

Although some degree of worry and stress is understandable considering these circumstances, it is vital that we support our elderly loved ones who may be suffering.

Here are some tips for supporting your loved one:

EXERCISING

According to a study, 20 minutes a week of any physical activity, such as cleaning or gardening, can have a positive impact on psychological distress. Encouraging your loved one to take walks in nature can help to relieve anxiety, as well as maintain fitness and muscle tone. Equally, encouraging them to do chair exercises will improve mood and posture.

RELAXATION TECHNIQUES

Stress management is focusing on triggering the opposite of the stress response: the relaxation response. This aids in lowering blood pressure, heart rate, breathing rate, stress hormones and oxygen consumption. Teaching your elderly loved one to take part in calming activities such as seated yoga, meditation, or daily journaling can enhance their feeling of wellbeing. Daily routines carried out together can be both enjoyable and beneficial.

STAYING SOCIAL

Elderly people experiencing stress often isolate themselves from others, refusing to socialize or participate in activities they perhaps used to enjoy. Here at DEW, we encourage our clients to enjoy arts and crafts, or do puzzles, play games, amongst a host of other activities to encourage socialization and group participation.?

REGULAR CHECK INS

A key part in easing some of the stress your loved one may be feeling is providing support during these difficult times. Sharing their thoughts and feelings can help them feel less stressed and more at ease. Check in with your loved one by giving them a ring every few days, or perhaps drop by for some tea and cake, or even a gin and tonic!