6 proven strategies for your parents to stay sharp and happy

As we navigate the later chapters of life, the importance of mental well-being becomes increasingly significant and ageing - often accompanied by physical decline, the loss of loved ones and the onset of chronic illnesses - presents distinct challenges however, our parents and many seniors exhibit a remarkable ability to adapt and thrive amidst these challenges. This is a testament to the resilience that often deepens with age and this resilience, central to successful ageing, is characterised by their ability to develop coping strategies, gain wisdom from life’s experiences and learn to prioritise what truly matters.

The Alarming Truth You Need to Know

The global demographic shift towards an ageing population presents important mental health challenges for everyone as the process of ageing impacts not only physical but also psychological functioning of the individual hence, geriatric mental health is an area of ongoing research for mental health professionals due to its significant impact on society. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Madhur Rathi, Consultant Psychiatrist and Psychotherapist at Yatharth Hospitals, explained, “As cognitive functions undergo natural decline with age, many seniors experience alterations in memory, processing speed, executive functions as well as mood, sleep, libido and appetite. These changes, while often within the spectrum of normal ageing, can significantly impact an individual's self-concept and emotional state.”

Resilience emerges as a critical factor in maintaining psychological health in older adults. Dr Madhur Rathi elaborated, “In seniors, resilient functioning is characterised by the ability to maintain emotional equilibrium in the face of age-related stressors, to engage in adaptive coping mechanisms and to preserve a sense of purpose and self-efficacy despite changing life circumstances.”

He suggested, “Promoting resilience in older adults involves targeted interventions aimed at enhancing cognitive flexibility and restructuring thought patterns. Cognitive flexibility allows seniors to adapt to new situations and revise mental strategies in response to environmental changes. Clinical interventions such as cognitive remediation therapy and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy have shown efficacy in enhancing these cognitive processes, thereby bolstering resilience.”

Asserting that the role of social cognition in resilience cannot be overstated, Dr Madhur Rathi said, “As individuals age, their social networks often contract, potentially leading to feelings of isolation and diminished social support. Clinically, this phenomenon necessitates interventions that not only encourage the maintenance of existing relationships but also facilitate the development of new social connections. Group psychotherapy modalities, particularly those employing interpersonal process techniques, have demonstrated effectiveness in improving social cognition and fostering resilience through enhanced social support.”

Conquering Ageing with a Resilient Mindset

Sama Beg, Chief Product Officer at Emoha, shared, “Interestingly, despite facing potential hardships, older adults in India often report higher levels of subjective well-being and lower rates of psychopathology compared to their younger counterparts, a phenomenon known as the “paradox of old age.” This suggests a resilient mindset, cultivated over a lifetime, that enables seniors to not only accept but also gracefully manage the challenges of ageing. This resilience is pivotal, allowing them to transform obstacles into opportunities for personal growth and strength.”

According to the World Happiness Report, despite India ranking 126th out of 143 countries in overall life satisfaction, older Indians show a higher level of contentment compared to other age groups. Sama Beg opined, “This is significant in a country where the elderly population is the second largest globally and growing at a rate three times higher than the overall population. To support our elders in nurturing this resilient mind-set, a multi-faceted approach is necessary, integrating clinical insights, healthcare innovations and compassionate caregiving.”

How Seniors Can Turn Hardships into Growth

Sama Beg advised -

1. Encouraging social engagement is paramount; participation in social groups, maintaining strong relationships with friends and family, and regular social activities can significantly bolster emotional health and create a supportive network.
2. Fostering a sense of purpose also plays a critical role. Whether through volunteer work, pursuing new hobbies, or engaging in community service, these activities can provide a meaningful counterbalance to any sense of loss that might come with ageing.
3. Similarly, stress management practices such as meditation, regular physical activity and seeking timely psychological support can enhance seniors' ability to cope with stress effectively.
4. Moreover, maintaining a positive attitude is absolutely essential. By focusing on what can be controlled, reframing challenges as opportunities and cultivating gratitude, seniors can maintain a hopeful and optimistic outlook.
5. Technology also offers a bridge to enhanced connectivity, providing access to virtual support communities, online therapy, and avenues to stay in touch with family and friends, thus combating isolation.
6. In this ecosystem of support, caregivers hold a pivotal role. Their dedication and empathy can significantly ease the daily lives of seniors, helping them to access necessary social and health resources, pursue interests, and manage everyday tasks. Caregivers are not just assistants but are integral to fostering an environment where the elderly feel heard, respected, appreciated and cared for. They advocate for the needs and preferences of seniors, ensuring that their charges live not just with comfort but with dignity and independence.

Resilience in ageing is a dynamic quality that can be cultivated and strengthened with thoughtful support. By providing our parents and seniors with the tools to manage stress, engage socially and maintain a positive outlook, we can help them navigate the complexities of ageing with confidence and joy. The collaborative effort between healthcare professionals, caregivers and community organisations ensure that the golden years can be lived with grace, strength and a deep sense of fulfilment, making every moment count in the journey of ageing.