Older adults need confidence to stay active
By Dipali Pathak
The best way for older adults to get the most out of their golden years is to stay active. But many seniors may first need a confidence boost in their ability to participate in a variety of hobbies and activities, said an expert at Baylor College of Medicine.
"One of the most important ways to build confidence is to be fit," said Dr. Robert Roush, associate professor of medicine – geriatrics at BCM. "Older adults should exercise and engage in resistance weight training. The capacity to maintain health and vigor will build confidence."
Anticipate changes
Roush, also a part of the Huffington Center on Aging at BCM, said older adults should not let anxiety stop them from enjoying pastimes such as bowling, traveling or learning a new language. They can still do them, but to a somewhat different degree, depending on changes in functional capacity caused by such conditions as arthritis, vision and hearing limitations and ability to ambulate.
"Older adults should anticipate that with age, there will be changes in their bodies that will make them less able to do things to the same degree as when they were younger," said Roush. "However, this should not discourage them from participating in any activities."
Roush suggests seeking out others who are interested in the same hobbies. Research shows that those with a wider group of friends are more likely to succeed in continuing or starting new activities.
Caregivers can also play a role in building confidence by asking older adults to join them in activities. Positive reinforcement from a caregiver will provide encouragement for an older adult.
Assert control
"It's important to remember that much of what happens as we age is in our control," said Roush.
Part of this is being as fit as possible, having a good health care provider with training in geriatrics and a trusted financial adviser.
Roush suggests rethinking activities you're not taking part in, and slowly building confidence to try new things. Nothing breeds success like success, he said.
"Don't forget that it's OK to ask for help if you can't do something on your own," said Roush.
