Mindfulness for older adults can be a useful tool and to help support people age well.
What is mindfulness?
The NHS says “mindfulness is about living more in the present moment, appreciating the here and now, and not dwelling too much on the past or future.”
We cannot change the past and we do not always have the ability to control future events as much as we would like. This means we can spend time and energy worrying rather than focussing on and enjoying the present.
Mindfulness is about training your mind to slow down, notice your thoughts and let them pass. This can help you feel calmer, reduce stress and anxiety and help you cope better with difficult situations.
The 3 Cs of Mindfulness
Mindfulness is often built around three key principles known as the 3 Cs. These principles are:
- Curiosity: approach your experiences with an open mind, noticing things as if for the first time.
- Compassion: be kind to yourself and others, especially when facing challenges.
- Consistency: regular practice is essential for developing and maintaining mindfulness.
Can mindfulness help us age well?
Life changes as we grow older and you might find you face new challenges such as adjusting to retirement or a change in routine, coping with health issues or managing feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Mindfulness for older adults can help you navigate these changes by:
- Reducing stress: practising mindfulness has been shown to lower stress levels and help you feel calmer.
- Improving focus: staying in the moment can sharpen your concentration and memory.
- Enhancing emotional wellbeing: mindfulness can help you manage difficult emotions and find more joy in everyday life.
- Supporting physical health: experts say it can even improve sleep and lower blood pressure.
These benefits are why mindfulness for the elderly is such a valuable practice in ageing well.
How to practise mindfulness
Mindfulness is free and does not require any special equipment to get started. Here are some simple ways to get started.
- Take a mindful breath: Pause for a moment and take a deep breath in through your nose. Hold it for a second, then slowly breathe out through your mouth. Focus on the sensation of your breath coming in and going out.
- Try mindful walking: Take a short walk and pay attention to how your feet feel as they touch the ground. Notice the sounds, sights, and smells around you.
- Use guided meditations: Apps like Calm offer beginner-friendly sessions. Or try free videos on YouTube – there are plenty to choose from.
- Focus on your senses: Pick an everyday activity, like having a cup of tea. Notice the warmth of the mug, the aroma of the tea, and the taste with each sip.
