Growing older is a privilege, but it does come with its challenges. For instance, with the body and mind slowing down, maintaining quality of life can be difficult.

If you have elderly parents, then it’s important to take an active role in supporting their overall wellbeing. After all, they’ll have been there for you when you needed help — now’s the time to return the favour.

There’s no shortage of ways that you can gently nudge your parents’ quality of life in the right direction. I will run through a few strategies below.

Encourage Activities

Studies have repeatedly shown that engaging in physical activities is one of the most effective ways for older people to maintain quality of life. With that said, it’s not something that all elderly people are eager to do of their own accord. But with a little bit of encouragement, you’ll find that they’re more willing to give it a try.

There are a few elderly-friendly activities that are worthwhile exploring. Yoga, tai chi, and zumba, for example, are all effective and fun ways to get moving. And there’s been a big surge in the popularity of walking football recently, too. 

If they’re not all that enthused by those activities, then suggest just going for a brisk walk. 

Staying Social

Getting outside becomes more challenging as we get older, and as such, there are many older people who are experiencing social isolation in the UK.

You can help combat this by encouraging your parents to stay social. For instance, you may find a local group for them to join, or offer to drive them to social events to make sure they get there. And don’t forget that you can also invite them to dinners and other outings and events that you organise with your immediate family, too. 

Appropriate Living Arrangements

Reduced mobility can make performing everyday tasks more difficult, especially in the home. You can help your parents by making adjustments to their home to make them more senior-friendly. For example, by adding grab rails in the bathrooms and near stairs. If remaining in the home isn’t an option, then take a look at a care home. They provide complete peace of mind that your loved one is safe, and also allow for convenient access to leisure and social activities, too. 

Mental Stimulation

Maintaining a sharp mind is essential for enhancing quality of life. If your parents aren’t actively engaging in mental stimulation themselves, then look at encouraging them to do so. There are plenty of games you could play with them, for instance — that won’t just give their mind a boost, but also provide a fun way to spend time with them. 

Focus on Emotional Well-Being

Finally, spend some time focusing on your parents’ emotional well-being. It’s likely that they’re experiencing new challenges and difficulties as they get older, and they’ll very much appreciate it if you take the time to listen to their concerns. In the end, investing in their emotional well-being is an investment in their happiness — and that’s all you want.