Originating from Eastern cultures thousands of years ago, meditation has become more popular because of its health benefits. Through meditation exercises, older people can manage pain, stress, depression, anxiety, or symptoms related to dementia, Parkinson's disease, and Alzheimer's disease.
But first, it's imperative that you understand why these exercises are necessary and how you can introduce them to your elderly loved one.
Why Meditation and Breathing Exercises Are Good for Seniors
Human beings are biological machines, and our bodies need constant maintenance. We can take care of ourselves by checking our physical and mental health. Meditation and breathing exercises are known to boost both physical and mental health.
The following are some ways breathing exercises can significantly contribute positively to the overall health of older individuals:
- They can slow down the progression of dementia and Alzheimer's.
- They can help to improve digestion.
- They can help an aged person maintain a focused mind.
- They can help with better emotional and mood management.
- They help to improve memory.
- They lead to improved calmness and relaxation.
Genuine meditation and breathwork practices nurture seniors' innate potential for happiness and awareness. Understandable and progressive guidance is essential for successful practice.
How You Can Introduce Meditation and Breathing Exercises to Your Loved One
If your loved one has never practiced meditation and breathing exercises, they can be motivated to give them a try if they know all the benefits they can potentially rip.
So how do you introduce meditation and breathing exercises to your aging loved ones? Here are some helpful tips:
1. Educate them on the medical benefits
Meditation has proven to have immense medical benefits for the elderly. Be sure to share with them how it can help them better manage their pain, improve their memory and slow down degenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's and dementia.
2. Address their apprehension
Your loved one might have the 'if not broken, why fix it mentality.' If they are in perfect shape, they may not see the need to engage in meditation and breathing exercises. Compassionately, let them know that it's best to incorporate these exercises into their daily routine so they can remain healthy.
3. Become their meditation partner
If you live with them, you can set a time of the day when both of you meditate together. If you don't live in the same house or town, you can leverage technology and have meditation sessions through a platform that works for both of you. Becoming meditation partners will alleviate some of their initial starting hurdles.
4. Introduce them to a mindfulness meditation group
Mindfulness meditation groups are a great way of connecting with others to share and deepen your meditation practice. Being in a meditation group, especially with fellow seniors, will help them get started and, most importantly, be consistent.
Consider Personalized Home Care Services
If your loved ones live in Westford, Tewksbury, Lowell, or Concord, the home care services from Senior Helpers of Westford will come in handy. We are the nation's leading provider of in-home senior care services ranging from companion services for seniors needing assistance with daily activities to comprehensive, personalized care for those with chronic diseases.
Contact us to find out more about our in-home care services or to schedule an in-home assessment in Westford.