Everyone has to adapt to changes that occur throughout their life, and for seniors, this is particularly crucial. The process of adapting to aging is unique for each person, but there are certain characteristics that generally define healthy adaptation. These include: perspective, flexibility, foresight, understanding others, and finding joy.

PERSPECTIVE means that a person should be properly oriented toward their future, considering how they will approach and navigate it. It involves a certain outlook, a mindset toward one’s continued life, and a broader perspective not only on oneself but also on the world in general.

FLEXIBILITY refers to adaptability or openness to developing new attitudes. A person should understand that some things in their life will gradually change, or perhaps have already changed. Some habits or routines may need to be left behind and replaced with new ones, and this should be accepted. It is also important to learn to accept criticism and view it as an opportunity for growth.

FORESIGHT offers the possibility of learning new things to replace those tasks one can no longer manage. For instance, if a person no longer has the same physical strength as before, they should avoid setting unrealistic goals. Instead, they should act according to their current abilities, which can sometimes be challenging to assess and accept. Foresight also involves effective time management and organizing one’s life in a practical way.

UNDERSTANDING OTHERS involves learning to recognize and respect the opinions and attitudes of other people. It’s important not just to notice them but to work with them, understand them, and eventually learn to tolerate them.

FINDING JOY is the ability to bring happiness into one’s life. As people age, many aspects of life that they were once accustomed to and that were important to them begin to disappear. Therefore, it is crucial for seniors to find activities that fulfill them, bring them joy, and give them satisfaction. It’s not so much about what the activity is, but rather that it is performed with genuine enjoyment and pleasure.

By following these recommendations and applying mental health practices, seniors can strengthen their adaptability.

Source:

Vostrý, M. – Veteška, J. – et al. (2021). Kognitivní rehabilitace senioru: psychosociální a edukační souvislosti. ISBN 978-80-271-2866-2.

Zuzana Raková