6 Ways to Help Seniors Find Their Purpose

From learning to walk and ride a bike to getting that big promotion and starting a family, life is filled with moments that bring meaning to our lives. However, life can lose its glow for many seniors when they no longer feel they have a distinct, definable purpose.

Study after study shows that older adults with a sense of purpose often have a higher quality of life and a decreased risk of developing medical conditions like mild cognitive impairment, heart attacks, or strokes.

We put together this guide on six ways you can help your aging loved one build a sense of purpose.

What does it mean to have a purpose?

Dictonary.com defines purpose as "the reason for which something exists." Purpose creates meaning and offers a sense of direction that guides our life. 

The purpose is subjective, as it can vary from person to person and alter over time. Therefore, there is no one answer to what it means to have a purpose. For example, what you value in early adulthood, like a successful career, can shift once you reach retirement age.

Helping aging adults find their purpose

Dementia expert and occupational therapist Teepa Snow once said, "we all want to be valued and appreciated, not just for what we've done in the past, but for what we can still do."

By utilizing these tips, you can assist your loved one in finding meaning in every day of their lives, no matter their age, medical status, or living situation.

Encourage Creativity

Dr. Gene Cohen, the founder of the George Washington Center for Aging, believed that creativity knew no age limit. His publication 'The Creativity and Aging Study' showed the impact it can have on seniors' physical and emotional health. 

Whether it's encouraging your loved one to paint a blank canvas or assisting someone with Alzheimer's to use their imagination, creativity can play a significant role in helping seniors find purpose and meaning. There's a form of creativity for everyone, no matter their age, to enjoy to become more in tune with themselves.

Cultivate Curiosity

While our hobbies may change as we age, it's never too late to learn something new or get back into something that once was of great interest. 

If you are caring for someone with dementia, ask yourself, what hobbies did my loved one use to enjoy? Did they ever express they wanted to learn something new but didn't have a chance? 

Senior centers around the Richmond, VA area are an excellent resource for your loved one to find a class that can help cultivate curiosity. If they are residing in a long-term community, consult with the onsite activities director to help encourage your loved one to get involved in hobbies that may interest them.

Engage In Enjoyable Activities With Others

Along with tapping into their creativity, encouraging your loved one to engage in enjoyable activities with others is also a key component to bringing a sense of purpose to their life. 

Help them identify enjoyable activities and encourage them to find others with the same pleasures. Maybe it's starting a book club or weekly card game at their senior living community. 

Seniors are at high risk for isolation, affecting their physical and mental health, including those with cognitive impairment. Socialization won't just give them something to look forward to; spending time with others will help them find their sense of purpose.

Show Them They Are Needed

Purpose comes from what sets us apart and our connection to others. 

Our aging loved ones spend their lives caring for us. Often as caregivers, we feel the way to show them we care is to do everything for them, especially when they are living with dementia or Alzheimer's. 

However, the need to feel valued doesn't disappear with age. Focus on what you can do to make your loved ones see that they are very much needed in your life. 

"People don't want to be in your memories; they want to be in your life."- Teepa Snow

Motivate Them To Complete Activities Of Daily Living

It's quite normal for a caregiver of someone with dementia or Alzheimer's to take over the care of that person, including everyday tasks like getting dressed or brushing their hair.  

However, you should encourage your loved one to complete or assist in their activities of daily living (ADLs) for as long as possible. 

"Seniors with dementia may have trouble remembering things. Embracing and using a long-standing routine and habits can keep individuals calm, focused, and able to perform their ADLs for longer", says LPTA and Benchmark founder Whitney Crawley.

Final Thoughts

Having a sense of purpose doesn't disappear with age or physical or mental ability. If you or someone you know is caring for an aging adult, using these tips can help them redefine their purpose. 

If you need information about senior living communities in the Richmond area or want to explore housing options to meet the needs of your loved one better, Benchmark Senior Solutions can help.

We offer free senior housing advisory services for older adults in Central VA. That means we use our knowledge and expertise to help your loved one find the perfect place to call home based on their medical needs, budget, and lifestyle.

From assisted living and memory care to skilled nursing and independent communities, Benchmark is Richmond's trusted source for senior placement services. Contact us today to get started!