Caring for Mentally Alert Seniors with Physical Limitations

Being physically limited while mentally alert can be especially difficult. There are ways to cope with this situation, though.

Many people feel that their brains stay young even as their bodies age. Physical challenges affecting mentally alert seniors can be frustrating as a result.

Many aspects of aging are challenging. The deterioration of the body is one of those challenges. For seniors who are mentally alert, coping with physical limitations can be especially difficult. There are several ways to help seniors’ mental wellbeing while they struggle with their physical health.

The Challenges of Being Alert But Limited Physically

When a person ages, they can expect to experience some deterioration. What many seniors don’t expect, though, is how difficult it can be to become physically limited while remaining mentally aware. Some compare the experience to feeling like a young person trapped in an elderly body.

Challenges that result include:

• A loss of ability to participate in physical activities

• Increased dependence on others for everyday life

• Mental stamina that is greater than physical endurance

• Frustration with desires to act that cannot be carried out

• Depression from a perceived loss of purpose or independence

• Anxiety over physical changes and limitations

Coping with the Physical Aging Process While Mentally Young

Since anxiety and depression can result when mentally alert seniors struggle with physical challenges, it is important to protect their emotional well-being. Coping mechanisms many seniors find helpful include:

• Adopting hobbies that require mental agility but little physical effort

• Using technology and tools to adapt to physical limitations

• Retaining independence in whatever ways are possible

• Regularly engaging socially apart from physical activity

• Having access to transportation if independent driving is not possible

• Participation in reasonable physical activities, especially to prevent further limitation

Preventing Depression Among Seniors

Depression can increase mortality rates and overall health, especially among seniors. Since physical limitation can contribute to depression, it is important to help physically impaired seniors prevent depression.

Preventing depression can include:

• Regular social engagement

• Mentally stimulating activities

• Participating in purposeful hobbies

• Receiving counseling

• Adaptations that promote independence

• A positive attitude

• The support of loved ones