Active Aging

SPRING 2021 | ACTIVE AGING 9 BY JENNIFER MCFEE T he pandemic continues to put unexpected pressure on people of all ages and stages of life — yet it's still possible to see some silver linings in our situation. Amid recent uncertainties, older adults have served as inspiration for their creative approaches to staying connected from a safe distance. Marion Cooper, executive director of Canadian Mental Health Association, Manitoba and Winnipeg, outlines a few more ways we can share hope for brighter days ahead. "As we age, there's a lot of emphasis on taking care of our physical health," she says. "But it's also critically important to actively and proactively take care of our mental health." One simple step is to sign up for the free online Well-being Course at www. wellcentral.ca. This interactive course is available to anyone who would like to improve and protect their own mental health. This evidence-informed and strengths- based program covers six dimensions of well-being: physical, social, cognitive, emotional, meaning and purpose, and environmental. With flexibility in mind, learners have the chance to set their own goals and proceed at their own pace. "We need to think about what to do every day to take care of our mental health. It's challenging right now, but we still need to stay connected to friends and family— even if it's just a phone call," Cooper says. "We also need to and consider what things make us feel stressed and find ways to manage our stress so that it doesn't get out of hand." At the same time, it's useful to determine methods to deal with life's transitions such as retirement, downsizing or the loss of a loved one. "Those transitions can be destabilizing, so what can I do to manage those changes in my life?" she says. "How can I make sure I'm doing extra self-care, planning and making decisions that I'm comfortable with that aren't just about pleasing others? We need to find these kinds of strategies." In addition, it's essential to learn how to cultivate a positive perspective. "As we're more isolated, it's easy to get pulled into thinking negatively about things," Cooper says. "We need to have a positive mindset and think things through in a flexible way without feeling pessimistic and negative." One supportive strategy is to develop a daily practice of gratitude. For a starting point, you can think about three things you're grateful for today— and then acknowledge your role in making those things happen. "It might be that I'm grateful for a really good cup of coffee or my cat to keep me company or my daughter who calls to check in on me. Then you can ask what's my part in that," says Cooper. "Maybe I make sure I have everything I need to make a good cup of coffee. "Maybe I try to have positive conversations with my daughter so that she wants to call me." She adds there are other ways to develop a positive mindset. "It's about being grateful and maintaining positivity, but it's also about acknowledging that I'm able to make these things happen for myself. It provides a sense of self-efficacy and having some control in my life. I'm not just sitting here waiting for things to happen that dictate my feelings or mood." To keep balanced, it's also beneficial to maintain healthy and consistent routines. "Maintaining a sleep hygiene practice is good for your mental health. As well, it's important to have enjoyment, such as watching a show that you really like or treating yourself with healthy foods," Cooper says. "And if you're struggling, don't hesitate to reach out for help." For more information, visit the Canadian Mental Health Association website at www.mbwpg.cmha.ca. The best things in life aren't things. For more information visit cropo.com Feeling Better for a Hopeful Future Marion Cooper "Those struggling with mental health issues shouldn't hesitate to reach out for help."

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