The Art & Advantages of Meditation for Elderly

Meditation is something everyone can do and only requires a short time out of our day – yet we struggle to make the effort to do it. More than taking some time out meditation has a number of benefits, especially for the elderly.

So why not encourage your loved ones to meditate and spend time meditating with them yourself? There are many ways to do it but here is a simplified step-to-step guide to learn to meditate:

  1. Find a peaceful environment. It could be a space outside or even a quiet spot in front of a window. This helps to focus on yourself rather than what is going on around you.
  2. Stretch. This relaxes the body before you begin. This is also a great chance to encourage your elderly parent to do some light exercise that can further benefit their health.
  3. Sit in a comfortable position. Everyone is different so choose what works for you. Ensure that your spine is straight and supporting the weight of your torso, neck and head. Eventually you should be able to relax your torso while maintaining a straight posture.
  4. Close your eyes. Focus on the rise and fall of your abdomen as you breathe in and out.
  5. Clear your mind. To do this try to either focus on one thing, such as an object or saying a word, or let your mind wander by visualising a place and exploring it until you reach a state of complete calm.
  6. Relax your body. Starting with your toes and working up to the top of your head, focus on one point at a time and consciously relax it.

Okay so now you know how to mediate, but what exactly are the benefits of meditation for seniors?

During meditation certain parts of the brain become stimulated, each one providing different benefits. This includes stimulation of the short and long-term memory hubs therefore improving memory recall. Also, the stimulation of the prefrontal cortex brain region (or the ‘feel-good’ region as we prefer to call it) increases feelings of happiness, which is especially important for seniors suffering from depression and other mood disorders.

The deep breathing exercises in meditation improve circulation and blood oxygen enrichment, which reaches out to all of the organs. This contributes to an improved digestive system through the stomach and intestines, giving immediate relief to digestive problems. The oxygen boost further helps the immune system and heals the lungs.

Meditation promotes creating a sense of inner calm and peace, thereby decreasing feelings of anxiety and stress. It also decreases loneliness as it encourages the elderly to enjoy some quiet time by themselves as they start to enjoy meditation and see the benefits it can bring to their life.

Here at Palm Lake Care we understand the importance of health and wellbeing through exercise, which is why we offer a number of activities for your loved ones to get involved in. As an aged care facility you can be confident that your elderly parent is participating in activities to increase their quality of life, compared to if they were living alone.

If you are interested in talking to someone about our aged care retirement, respite or assisted living options please contact us on 1800 246 677 or complete our online enquiry form today.