Protective Factors That Help Seniors Thrive

According to the World Health Organization, approximately one-sixth of adults over the age of 60 live with a mental disorder. Although seniors can enjoy relaxation due to retirement and a lighter schedule, they still often face unforeseen mental challenges.

Protective factors, when used correctly, can significantly reduce the chances of negative outcomes for seniors in Broken Arrow, OK. In this guide, we will explore protective factors and how they affect every facet of your life. 

What Are Protective Factors?

Protective factorsrefer to actions that people take, as well as characteristics, to lessen the negativity and stress surrounding issues such as mental health disorders or major life transitions. Ultimately, these factors aim to shield the sufferer from experiencing the most detrimental effects of psychological or situational problems. 

Psychological Protective Factors

Psychological protective factors specifically impact intellectual wellness. These may include: 

• Mental Health Boosters: Cultivating positive thought patterns that have an impact on mental health, such as optimism, resilience, and self-confidence. 
• Emotional Regulation: The ability to identify when emotional reactions feel out of control and use coping mechanisms to restore a healthy balance. 
• Acceptance of Change: Mentally navigating huge life transitions, such as retirement, loss of a loved one, or downsizing to a smaller living space, with an open and accepting attitude.
• Compassion: Awareness of the suffering and mental issues of others, and taking steps to alleviate psychological pain and aid in mental wellness and healing through shared experiences. 
• Sense of Self-Efficacy: Feeling confident about your ability to navigate challenges and emerge on the other side with feelings of success and accomplishment. 

Social Protective Factors 

Protective factors can expand outside of your own mental wellness. Social protective factors affect how you interact with family and community to foster positive mental health and navigate stressful circumstances, such as: 

• Sense of Belonging: Feeling like you have found a group of friends or family whom you connect with to share experiences and support each other. 
• Community Activism: Uplifting others in your community with methods such as mutual aid, education, and volunteerism. 
• Strong Familial Relationships: Investing time and effort into relationships with family members, either improving or maintaining healthy connections. 
• Setting Clear Boundaries: Ensuring that you prioritize your mental health and well-being by setting boundaries in all areas of your life.
• Maintaining Strong Interpersonal Relationships: Actively communicating with friends, family, and loved ones to continue to foster positive relationships with important people in your life. 

Physical Health and Lifestyle Factors

Protective factors that impact your physical health and lifestyle are essential to keeping both your body and mind healthy. Here are some solutions to implement today: 

• Regular Exercise: Exercising several times a week is a fantastic way to keep your body in shape, as well as produce endorphins to boost your mood and help with hormone regulation. 
• A Balanced Diet: A nutrient-rich meal plan provides essential vitamins and minerals for optimal functioning.
• Limiting Unhealthy Habits: Consuming alcohol, sweets, and treats sparingly, and eliminating habits such as smoking, can help regulate your body naturally and positively impact your mental health. 
• Practicing Good Sleep Hygiene: A consistent sleep routine with habits such as less screen time and white noise will aid in developing a schedule and resetting your body's circadian rhythms. 
• Getting Outside Regularly: Going outside can help your body absorb more Vitamin D and help you connect with nature. 

Coping Strategies and Self-Care

While seeking help is important, knowing how to self-regulate and practice self-care is essential. Here are some techniques to combat negative thoughts and emotions:

• Meditation: Use guided meditations or simply practice deep breathing to reap the benefits of meditation and mindfulness. 
• Journaling: Putting your thoughts down on paper can be a cathartic act and lead to emotional release. 
• Aromatherapy: strategically using scents such as lavender or eucalyptus for their calming effects to influence your mood.
• Work With a Professional: A therapist or licensed clinical social worker can help identify negative thought patterns and develop practical solutions.
• Pamper Yourself: A spa experience, a haircut, or even a skincare treatment can help you feel better on the inside when you look good on the outside. 

Technological Empowerment

The rise of technology has facilitated self-care and improved mental well-being. Too much screen time and exposure to social media can negatively impact mental health, but there are ways to use technology positively. 

For instance, if you work with a mental health professional, video conferencing services such as Zoom or Skype are crucial for connection. Seniors who may face transportation challenges can connect with a provider who matches their needs, without leaving home. 

Many mental health apps aid in mood tracking and fostering self-care or positive habits. Some apps include guided meditations and breathing exercises for grounding purposes, while others gamify self-care to encourage users to complete daily tasks for in-app rewards. 

Even social media can be a powerful tool when used correctly. Social media websites such as Facebook have groups for all types of specific interests. Join a group for seniors in your area, or a community geared towards a special interest, to engage in online socialization. 

Overcoming Challenges

Seniors may face unique challenges when caring for their mental health and establishing protective factors. These include: 

• Financial Barriers: Seniors are often on a fixed income, which can make it financially challenging to seek help. 
• Lack of Transportation: Many seniors no longer own cars and rely on others for transportation.
• Loneliness and Isolation: Seniors who have left the workforce often socialize less in person.
• Cognitive Decline: Those suffering from dementia or other diseases may experience confusion or other negative experiences without adequate coping mechanisms. 

Emotional Support for Seniors at Morada Broken Arrow

There are many different protective factors that impact senior mental health. With this guide, you can determine which protective factors will help you have a better quality of life in your golden years. 

Are you looking to upgrade your senior lifestyle? Consider moving to Morada Broken Arrow. Our beautiful independent senior living community offers healthy aging strategies and senior social activities, along with many other independent living benefits like health and wellness activities and chef-prepared meals. 

Ready to make the transition? Contact us today to learn more about our senior living community, or visit us in person at our stunning campus in Broken Arrow, OK, to see it for yourself. We can't wait to hear from you!