Home Care Nassau County NY
October is Positive Attitude month. Finding the history of this obscure national event is a little bit of a challenge, but whoever designated it certainly had their priorities in place. People have the choice to go through life with a positive attitude or a defeatist philosophy. Is it really a choice? Waking up happy with an attitude of gratitude is surely a boon to wandering through life looking for the next catastrophe. But, just as in the characters of Winnie The Pooh, there are those that live life as an Eeyore, filled with pessimism and gloom, and those who emulate Tigger, T—I—double G—er, and overflow with optimism and exuberance. So why is it that happiness is sometimes fleeting and sadness a formidable foe?
The truth is, people do have a choice—every day. The other truth is, life has its challenges and sometimes turning that frown upside down is more trouble than it’s worth. For those who are feeling the effects of aging and their children who are looking after them, there are bound to be days when Eeyore raises his head and whines. So here, then, are some suggestions, both for the elderly parent and the child, to help Tigger emerge the victor.
Take a Walk
Nature and physical exercise are two of the greatest elixirs for mental sludge. One lets the senses touch upon the immense beauty, sounds and smells that surround us, while the other increases both heart rate and those all-important mood stabilizers, the endorphins. In addition, the camaraderie established when doing it together helps build unity and reduces the feeling of isolation that is prominent among the aging population.
Comedy
When Norman Cousins was diagnosed with an incurable illness, did he pine away his remaining time on earth feeling sorry for himself? No! He decided to laugh. In fact, for 30 days he did nothing but watch comedy shows, read comic books and tell jokes. When, after 30 days, he went to the doctors for a check-up, the incurable disease was gone. While laughter may not be the cure for all ills, it certainly can distill worry or fear into joy and peace. So, when the blues start to creep in on parent or child, watch a movie together, read a book, tell each other jokes—do something that makes everybody laugh.
Take a Break
While unity and social exchange have their place, spending time alone is also an important part of living a balanced life and staying positive. This is where home care providers can help when it’s clear that the family caregiver needs a break or the parent requires more companionship and care than the family can provide. In-home senior care providers assist with the activities of daily living, including dressing and bathing, meal preparation and light housekeeping. Above and beyond this service, they provide loved ones with that all-important companionship that helps them remember their inner Tigger.