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In the past little attention was given to the rights of seniors to be happy. Society established that basic physical needs must be met in-order for the elderly to remain healthy, but not much importance was placed on their emotional wellness. In more recent years more facts about the elderly and depression, including links with suicide, have been established. Carers of seniors may imagine depression is a natural consequence of aging, however we now know it's not necessary for people to become miserable and blue as they age, and staying happy is as important for the emotional wellbeing of the elderly as it is for younger people. There are several ways carers can help the elderly avoid depression and gain happiness.

Helping others

Feeling like they're useful and still valuable members of the community can help the elderly find self worth, and stave off depression that stems from imagining they've outlived their usefulness. Guilford senior center carried out a survey which revealed that seniors include making other people happy, and helping them, as a direct aid to their own happiness.

Carers can pave the way for seniors to increase feelings of confidence, happiness and self worth by encouraging them to be part of the community they live in and adopt a helping role. Seniors who don't have the physical ability to help others may still be able to impart their wisdom gained over the years and give sound advice.

Activities from helping with household chores, to teaching people how to do things can be a good outlet from which seniors gain happiness and a sense of pride.

Socialising

Elderly people often feel cut off and isolated. They may see the same carers, day in and day out, but not keep in touch with family members who were once close, or friends they used to spend a great deal of time with when they were able. The BBC News Channel reports that the main source of company for the elderly these days is television rather than human interaction.

Carers can encourage seniors under their care to engage in activities which involve other people, such as playing bingo, or attending events aimed at seniors coming together for celebrations and entertainment.

Staying mentally active

Not only does staying mentally active help stave off Alzheimer's disease, but it can also go a long way to making seniors feel in charge of their mental health while providing something interesting for them to do. Seniors who have little to occupy their minds and make them think about achievement are prone to depression. Carers can help seniors keep their brain cells forming connections by offering them puzzles, crosswords and other mentally stimulating games and tasks to complete.

Physical fitness

Physical exercise is necessary for the elderly, not only to help them stay as fit as possible, but also to stimulate feel good endorphins which occur as a result of exercising. Carers can encourage seniors to adopt an exercise routine by providing an exercise care package suitable for the physical requirements and capabilities of individuals.

Seniors can overcome and avoid depression while gaining happiness with the attentive help of thoughtful carers, who are able to encourage them to increase self worth, remain useful and sociable members of their community, and look after their grey matter as-well as their bodies.