RESILIENCE RECHARGE: FIVE STEPS OLDER ADULTS CAN TAKE TO BUILD RESILIENCE
Aging is a natural process that brings wisdom, self-assurance and inner strength — but it can also present unique challenges. As life changes, proactively building mental resilience can help us bounce back during difficult times.
Researchers at Mather Institute study ways to age well, including how older adults can build resilience. According to them, there are simple steps older adults can take to find areas of strength to rely on.
“Aging has a lot of ups and downs,” Jacquelyn Stephens, PhD, a senior research associate with Mather Institute, says. “Much of that is because we don’t always have control. Resilience focuses on what we can control and a skill we can build at any age. By taking a few small actions every day, you can have a big impact on your mental health.”
These are the five simple steps Stephens says you should consider working into your daily routine to build stronger resilience.
No. 1 Identify Personal Strengths
Growing older is often associated with loss, but many personal strengths remain, while some get better with time. For instance, older adults have a lifetime of knowledge and experience that can offer encouragement and support to others as a volunteer or mentor. Sharing these strengths through meaningful social connections can reinforce a sense of purpose and identity. Maintaining social ties, especially as we age, is an important way to preserve our sense of self and place within a community.
No. 2 Practice Gratitude
It can be easy to slip into the mindset that everything is going wrong, especially during challenging times. Practicing gratitude helps interrupt the cycle of negativity. Spend a few moments thinking about small things that bring you joy. It can be as simple as being thankful for someone in your life or perhaps a moment of kindness from a stranger.
No. 3 Cultivate Positivity
Cultivating positivity means intentionally noticing what is going well in the present moment. Every day offers new opportunities to savor small moments, from a beautiful sunset on an evening walk to a fresh cup of coffee in the morning. Taking a few moments to notice a special moment allows us to build up positive feelings we can return to in difficult times.
No. 4 Act Kindly
Resilience is strengthened by not only receiving kindness, but also giving it. Lending a helping hand is a reminder we are connected to others and don’t need to face challenges alone. Consider surprising a friend or loved one with a small, thoughtful gesture that puts a smile on their face.
No. 5 Manage Negative Thoughts
It can be easy to assume the worst when faced with uncertainty, but this tendency can heighten anxiety. During a crisis, you can’t always think positively. By training your brain while in a positive mental state, you can later find five minutes to calm down when faced with a challenge.
Start Small for a Big Payoff
Starting a new habit can feel overwhelming, but Stephens suggests starting small – or inviting a friend to join the journey.
“If you go to the gym once, nothing is going to happen – it’s the same principle here,” Stephens says. “We want to slowly and consistently build our resilience muscle. Practicing with a buddy can make it more enjoyable and help you stick with it.
“Aging is a privilege. Older adults bring valuable experiences to every conversation, and our goal is to help people age well with confidence and resilience.”
