How to Boost Your Mental Health
July 11, 2025Mental health diagnoses – like depression or anxiety – are common in older adults. They can be the result of having multiple chronic conditions, losing independence, or feeling isolated or lonely. These issues are nothing to be ashamed of or embarrassed about. These are illnesses and conditions that health care professionals, including doctors and pharmacists, can help manage.
Signs of mental health conditions include:
• Changes in mood or appetite
• Loss of interest in activities you used to love
• Sleep changes (sleeping too much or having trouble sleeping)
• Increased anger or irritability
• Aggressive behavior
• Impatience or restlessness
• Withdrawal from friends or family
• Lack of interest in or attendance to personal hygiene
• Unexplained aches and pains
If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or others, talk to a doctor or your community’s health office right away. They will work with you to determine the best way to address the issue. Medications might be useful or necessary, but there are other things you can do to improve your mood and reduce anxiety:
Music. There are many famous sayings about the power of music, and scientific research backs them up. Both playing and listening to music have been shown to boost mood, lower anxiety, and reduce stress. Playing an instrument, singing favorite songs, or simply listening to music you enjoy can all help.
Exercise. This can have a positive effect on both your physical and mental health. It can be as simple as a walk outside, a tai chi or other exercise class, or even dancing to some favorite songs. If you have limited mobility, there are exercises that can be done sitting down. Work with your doctor or community’s health office to find exercise you can do safely and will enjoy.
Clubs. Senior living communities often have clubs to bring people with common interests together. Find a club you’ll enjoy based on your interests –reading, knitting, sports, pets, arts and crafts, movies, or something else. If a club doesn’t exist, work with your community’s staff to start one. Participating in a club increases socialization and reduces isolation, which can help enhance your mood and lower depression.
Classes. Senior living communities often support residents’ desire for lifelong learning and may offer on-site classes, virtual online classes, or courses or programs at local schools or community centers. Continuing your love of learning can help keep you engaged and active, and feed your need for a
sense of purpose.
Entertainment. Think about how happy a recent concert or movie made you feel. Concerts, dance performances, plays, movie nights, and other forms of entertainment keep people engaged and bring them together with others who share their interests.
Pet therapy. Many studies have shown the benefits of pet therapy and the pet-people connection. These include decreasing anxiety, lowering blood pressure, boosting memory, and even reducing pain. Helping to care for an animal, such as brushing their fur or taking them for a walk, also can increase self-esteem and give you a sense of purpose. Some senior living communities allow residents to have pets, while others allow pets to visit or have formal pet therapy programs.
Physicians, pharmacists, and other care team members are there to help you, so talk with them about any concerns you have about mental health issues. Working together, you can help maximize your health and quality of life.
Want to Know More?
Here are a few resources:
6 Ways to Enhance Seniors’ Mental Health
Older Adults and Mental Health
Supporting Older Adult Mental Health: What You Can Do
Pet Presence in Long-Term Care: Making It Happen in Your Community