Science-Backed Techniques For Reducing Stress

As we get older, our bodies change, our minds may not be as sharp as they once were, and we may face new and unfamiliar circumstances.

With all these changes, it’s no surprise that we seniors often feel stressed and worried. But there are a few simple tips that can make a huge difference. Let’s take a closer look!

How Does Stress Impact Seniors?

Stress is a natural part of life, and it’s something that we all experience from time to time. As we age, our bodies become less equipped to handle stress, making us more vulnerable to its negative effects.

Stress can manifest in a variety of ways, including physical symptoms like muscle tension, heart disease, diabetes, cognitive decline, headaches, and digestive issues, as well as emotional symptoms like anxiety, depression, and irritability.

It’s so important to manage your stress levels for a healthier, happier life.

6 Tips for Reducing Stress in Seniors

Here’s what you can do to combat stress and lead a happier, healthier life.

1. WRITE DOWN YOUR WORRIES

When we worry, we can get lost in a loop of negative thoughts, or we may focus on worst-case scenarios. Writing down our concerns can help.

Putting our thoughts on paper forces us to articulate our concerns in a more concrete and objective way. Seeing our worries in black and white can sometimes take the edge off our anxiety.

The act of writing can be therapeutic in and of itself. Putting pen to paper allows us to express ourselves freely and without judgment. Writing can help us gain a new perspective on a situation, or reveal feelings that we may not have been fully conscious of.

Remember that writing down our worries does not mean that we are dwelling on the negative but instead, acknowledging our concerns and working through them.

2. TRY MINDFULNESS

Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment and fully engaged in your surroundings. Instead of worrying about the past or future, mindfulness encourages you to focus on the present moment and to engage with your surroundings.

3. GET MOVING (IDEALLY OUTSIDE)

Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to reduce stress. Exercises like walking or swimming release endorphins, improve heart health, and promote better sleep.

4. EMBRACE YOUR COMMUNITY

Feeling isolated can lead to depression and anxiety. Consider joining a local seniors group, volunteering, or participating in community activities.

5. MIND YOUR DIET

Your diet may play a critical role in your stress levels. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help reduce stress and improve overall health.

Final Thoughts

If you’re feeling stressed, making the move to independent living may help alleviate stress for both residents and families. PLC communities offer all kinds of stress-relieving activities to our residents, from exercise classes to social events.

After all, stress affects everyone, and our residents are no exception. By taking practical steps to reduce anxiety, we can lead healthier, happier, and of course, more relaxing, lives.

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Many thanks to Cherry Laurel Tallahassee for the safe-keeping or our 90+ year old parents...
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Thelma
Many thanks to Cherry Laurel Tallahassee for the safe-keeping or our 90+ year old parents, Al & Millie, during Hurricane Michael. A special thanks to Debbie the manager who, although her house had a tree fall on it, remained at the residence to care for all the seniors – she is a real hero who has gone above and beyond our expectations in caring for our parents – and thanks to her team who kept everything running as smoothly as possible, give the circumstance - it is very much appreciated. Thank you for the large generator that was delivered to turn the lights on and special thanks to the workers who worked so diligently and quickly in getting Tallahassee back to rights in such quick time. You’re all our heroes!!!
Thelma
Thelma
Cherry Laurel is a beautiful facility where all staff is focused on providing the best ...
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Halie
Cherry Laurel is a beautiful facility where all staff is focused on providing the best quality of life for your loved one. Residents greatly benefit from the activities and socialization! Cherry Laurel is a wonderful home for both yourself or your loved one!
Halie
Halie
I came down from the north to find a place to live. I toured a ...
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Paul
I came down from the north to find a place to live. I toured a few places then came to Cherry Laurel. After taking a tour with Valerie I didn't need to look anymore because she was awesome and I knew this was the place to be. Donna does a great job planning activities and outings too.
Paul
Paul
My mom has been at Cherry Laurel for over a year, and we love...
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Marie
My mom has been at Cherry Laurel for over a year, and we love it! The one bedroom apartments are nice and roomy, and the balcony looks out over a beautiful green space. Cherry Laurel is a small community where everyone knows everyone. The staff are so warm and welcoming. The director, Valerie knows every one by name. Ms Donna plans fun activities- like bingo, craft days, special events and outings to local restaurants. The rest of the staff are sweet, kind and truly care about the residents! I am so grateful to all of the staff at Cherry Laurel- it’s truly a special place!
Marie
Marie
I recently toured Cherry Laurel with my 92 year old mother-in-law. As a first impression, I ...
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Brian
I recently toured Cherry Laurel with my 92 year old mother-in-law. As a first impression, I have nothing but positive things to say. The sales manager who led the tour was kind and informative - we didn't have many remaining questions to ask after our meeting/tour. We ran into the head manager, who seemed caring and quickly established a connection with my mother-in-law that made us feel she would be in safe place. We looked at studios and 1br apartments; all were clean and seemed to be well maintained when we tested different facets of the apartments. The common areas of the building are now being renovated in increments, which should be a nice change for the residents. After touring several independent, senior living apartments in town, we have decided Cherry Laurel is the right place for us!
Brian
Brian
i have been working at cherry laurel for over a year and i truly have...
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Gianna
i have been working at cherry laurel for over a year and i truly have to say i love all the residents and the other staff here. Cherry Laurel is a very warm and inviting place across the board and all the staff truly cares for all the residents. Management is amazing and Valerie who is the General Manager will always put the residents needs first and truly knows how to run a facility! Sales manager is extremely informative and Donna, the activities coordinator always has something fun in store for the residents! Haven’t had a bad experience here!
Gianna
Gianna
My mother was in Cherry Laurel for five years. During her stay there , everyone was ...
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Paula
My mother was in Cherry Laurel for five years. During her stay there , everyone was very helpful and it was run efficiently. Valerie, (the current Director) was especially helpful and quick to solve any problems my mother or myself brought up. The rooms are spacious. Ms Donna plans wonderful activities for the residents. Dancing with Dave on Wednesdays was a favorite of my moms. I would recommend Cherry Laurel to anyone that is considering it.
Paula
Paula

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