Dr. Eboni Green
May 1, 2021
There are any number of factors that can impact your self-esteem as you age. These factors can be health-related or stem from a lack of social interactions with family and friends. Some elders may also lack confidence due to a loss of in independence with some of their activities of daily living (ADL’s). However, there are several things you can do to boost the self-esteem of a loved one and encourage a more positive mindset. The following are five ways you to boost your loved one’s self-esteem:
If you suspect that your loved one is feeling down, you should try to identify their concerns. Perhaps your loved one has recently experienced health issues which have had a negative impact on their self-esteem. For example, hearing loss can make daily activities and socializing more challenging, which can be demotivating. If you think your loved one may be experiencing hearing loss, it’s advisable to take them for a hearing test as a precaution.
Social withdrawal in your loved one could also be related to alterations in self-esteem. It is important to gently encourage social activities and spend plenty of quality time with your loved one. There are several benefits of social activities in older adults. It can help improve their cognitive functions, boost their mood, and build confidence. If your loved one is socially withdrawn you might suggest joining a local senior center or participating in an online platform to improve your loved one’s social well-being.
It is said that being in nature improves mental well-being, and it is a great way to gain perspective. Nature has a way of helping you increase your serotonin which can improve your positive feelings and self-esteem. Consider taking your loved one for a walk in an area of natural beauty near where they live. You might even discover hidden gems you did not know existed. You will both return feeling relaxed, yet energized and ready to take on new challenges. Getting in touch with nature is an amazingly effective way to destress and leave your troubles behind.
Volunteering in the local community gives you a sense of achievement, and helps you gain a new perspective. There are plenty of volunteer activities that are suitable for seniors. You can find volunteer opportunities online. Helping people is extremely rewarding. It is a good way to keep your loved one active, and they might even make some new friends. Volunteering can also help them to feel useful again and this will boost their confidence.
Try to motivate your loved one by including something creative in their daily activities. Creative hobbies can provide a level of engagement and can be very satisfying. If your loved one has a particular interest or talent, encourage them to use it. This will help to improve their overall mental well-being. You might even get them using technology or teach them something new. Finding a way for your loved one to express themselves creatively will naturally increase their self-confidence and belief in themselves. You could even try a new activity together. Look for something that will engage their interests that they will enjoy.
