Senior Living: The Importance of Reflecting on One’s Accomplishments
by Melrose GardensReflecting on the past can have many positive impacts on an aging adult. According to the American Psychological Association, reminiscence can improve psychological well-being, and looking back on memories is especially helpful in boosting the moods of seniors with memory loss conditions like dementia or Alzheimer's. While reminiscence is most often associated with reflecting on memories of loved ones, reflecting on one’s accomplishments is equally important for seniors. At Melrose Gardens, our memory care places a strong emphasis on reflection. Below, we discuss a few of the ways that our residents benefit from reflecting on their accomplishments.
Improves Quality of Life
Seniors who reflect on their accomplishments may have an improved outlook on life. A senior’s accomplishments are often associated with positive feelings, and focusing on one’s accomplishments can promote a greater sense of satisfaction when looking back on one’s life. This is especially beneficial for seniors with degenerative conditions, who when sharing their accomplishments, may be distracted from worries about their health. This can also improve physical health, as a positive outlook is strongly associated with health benefits like lower blood pressure, better heart health, improved weight control, and healthier blood sugar levels.
Provides Direction
Looking back on the past can help seniors find purpose and direction in life. After reviewing their past accomplishments with a more mature outlook, older adults are better able to move toward a productive and meaningful present and future. Life does not end at retirement, so reflecting on past accomplishments can help seniors determine what they want to accomplish moving forward as they transition to a new chapter of their life.
Enhances Self-Esteem
Aging can be a challenging process for many, and declining health and memory can put a damper on a senior’s self-esteem. Reflecting on their past accomplishments and appreciating what they have done can help reaffirm a senior’s feelings of value and importance. Understanding one’s worth is a key component of psychological health, and many seniors may not have had the time and space to reflect on the value of their contributions in their fast-paced life before retirement. Whether they choose to reflect on their own or share their accomplishments with others, simply acknowledging their contributions to the world can greatly improve a senior’s sense of dignity.
Melrose Gardens
Memory Care in Los Angeles
One of the most important aspects of reflection is being able to share these memories and accomplishments with others. Feeling heard can have a tremendous impact on a senior’s self-esteem, and we’re here to listen. Our memory care community is devoted to caring for the “whole person,” and we understand the importance of helping our residents reconnect with their past to nurture a positive outlook on life.
If you’re exploring memory care communities in the Los Angeles area, our doors are always open. We’d love to have you over for a tour of our community, where we can walk you through our programs and give you the information you need to make the right decision for you and your loved ones.
Please Contact Us
960 Martel Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90046
Phone: (323) 876-1746
Email: director@melrosegardens.com