Emotional wellness refers to the ability to manage emotions, cope with stress, maintain relationships, and find purpose and meaning in life. For older adults across Lake Norman, this aspect of health can be deeply influenced by life changes like retirement, loss, declining physical ability, or social isolation.
The impact?
Depression, anxiety, and loneliness affect millions of seniors. CDC reports that an estimated 20% of people over 55 experience mental health concerns. However, many issues go undiagnosed because symptoms are labeled as “just aging.” Unchecked emotional health struggles can lead to physical decline, increased hospitalizations, and even earlier mortality.
The good news? Small and consistent actions can make a positive difference.
We live in an area with many programming options for seniors, The North Meck Senior Center in Huntersville, the South Iredell Senior Center in Mooresville, Regional Recreation Center in Cornelius, as well as our local YMCA.
What can we do?
- Build Routine and Purpose
Consistency can provide comfort. Daily routines—waking up at the same time, enjoying morning tea, a regular visit with a friend—all help create a sense of normalcy. My parents live in Cornelius and have regular time with friends-- a walk at Jetton Park, a coffee and pastry at WaterBean. Encourage activities that support a sense of routine and purpose.
- Foster Meaningful Connection
Loneliness is an impediment to wellness. Encourage connection through regular phone / video calls, visits, or activities. Being a good listener is a powerful form of care. Your presence and a non-judgmental space are sufficient. With technological advancements, there are many options allowing safe and easy video communication which can remove a barrier to connection.
- Stay Alert
Be alert to changes in sleep, appetite, mood, or withdrawal from activities. The standard “I’m fine” response is an automatic cultural response when asked “how are you doing?” If you sense that there is something “off,” gently probe and listen. Early intervention matters.
- Promote Mind-Body Practices
Practices like deep breathing, exercise, gratitude journaling, or mindfulness can all help manage stress and improve mindset. Tailor these to one’s ability and comfort level. Doing these practices yourself and making it something you do together reduces apprehension and opens the door to exploring some new practices.
- Listen and recognize
Older adults have lived rich, complex, and amazing lives. Asking questions, and patiently listening to their stories and / or documenting memories in photo books, journals or videos supports expression and reminds seniors that they matter. Being fully present is a clear sign of respect and helps forge connection, trust and meaning. Knowing that you matter is powerful.
Caring With Heart and Mind
Emotional wellness is more than physical health. Each person’s story matters and with intentionality and the right care, every senior across Iredell county and Lake Norman can know that they belong and that they matter.
Bringing this vision to fruition is something to which we can all contribute.