Christmas is around the corner and so is the stress. According to Karl older adults are incorrectly presumed to be more vulnerable to the psychosocial effect of stressors. A study of stress and coping in old-old clients(aged 75-91 years revealed that such clients, in comparison with clients of other ages, were less likely to view their lives as having a problems and they expend less effort in coping(Aldwin,1996). This may because the life experiences and perspective of older adults have acquired appropriate stress management techniques or both.
4 ways older adult can ease their own stress
- Regular Exercise
A regular exercise program improves muscle tone and posture, controls weight, reduces tension, and promotes relaxation. In addition, exercise reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and improves cardiopulmonary functioning. Clients who have a history of a chronic illness, who are at risk for developing an illness, or who are older than 35 years old should begin a physical exercise program only after discussing the plan with a physician. Im general, for a fitness program to have positive physical effects, a person should exercise daily for an hour.
2. Time Management
Time management techniques include developing list of tasks to be performed in order of priority e.g tasks that require immediate attention, those that are important but can be delayed, and those that are routine and can be accomplished when time become available. In many cases, setting priorities helps individuals identify tasks that are not necessary or perhaps can even be delegated to someone else.
3. Support Systems
A support system of family, friends, and colleagues who listen, offer advice, and provide emotional support benefits clients experiencing stress. Many support groups are available to individuals such as those sponsored by the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Cancer Society , local hospitals and churches.
4. Guided Imagery and Visualization
The concept of guided imagery is based on the belief that a person can significantly reduce stress with imagination. Guided imagery is a relaxed state in which a person actively uses imagination to visualize a soothing, peaceful setting. The image created or suggested typically evokes many sensory words to engage the mind and offer distraction and relaxation.
