How to Support the Mental Well-being of Elderly People During War?
Old age is a difficult time that brings not only physical exhaustion but also mental and emotional strain. This period is extremely sensitive and requires close attention from those around them. Nowadays, as elderly people, like everyone else in society, face stressful andstressanxious times, do not leave them alone. Pay attention to the tips in this section ofSelMagzto help your elderly parents go through the war without psychological harm.
Mental Support for Elderly During Stressful War Conditions
- Continuously invite them to join your family gatherings.
- Ask them to share interesting stories from the past during these gatherings to help themrelieve stressand disconnect from the present tension.
- Do not prevent them from engaging in activities.
- One of the psychological needs of the elderly is to have tools for expressing thoughts and feelings, so let them express their emotions.
- Stay informed about their condition and do not leave them alone during these stressful days.
- Making phone calls and visiting them is essential to reduce feelings of loneliness.
- To reinforce their sense of self-worth, involve the elderly in decision-making processes.
- Keep track of their health and ensure they get necessary medications regularly.
- Ensure your elderly are aware of accurate information about ongoing events.
- Prepare meals for your elderly parents, as they might not be able to cook in these stressful times.
- Maintain empathetic emotional support by listening, making eye contact, etc.
- Ensure your elderly sleep peacefully at night, as disrupting their sleep schedule can lead to serious health issues.
- Helping to calm the home environment and providing adequate financial support are important actions you can take for them.
- Create active peer groups for them to stay connected regularly.
- Even short trips, like visiting a rural area, can significantly boost their morale during these days.
- Respect and try to fulfill your elderly parents’ wishes as much as possible.
