Senior Care in Folsom CA
For years, more and more people have turned to Eastern teachings to see what there is to learn and what can be adapted to Western culture. One area of thought from the East that has resonated 
quite significantly in the West is mindfulness and meditation. In fact, when practiced regularly, meditation can have a positive impact on the lives of seniors.
Some of the benefits offered by meditation are discussed below:
Increased longevity
According to a study found in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, there is evidence that suggests regular meditation leads to improved longevity. This specific study measured the effect of this behavior on a number of seniors and discovered quite a significant reduction in mortality rates for those who actively meditated. Another way that this action may improve a person’s longevity is by preventing cellular aging, which is something suggested by the National Institutes of Health.
Reduces feelings of loneliness
Mediation has also been found to reduce feelings of loneliness, or rather promote feelings of being connected. A study from UCLA discovered that seniors who participated in an eight week program were able to reduce feelings of loneliness through meditation. Since a huge issue for many seniors is isolation, this is quite a significant discovery.
It’s never too late
There are some seniors who believe they cannot enjoy the benefits of meditation due to their age; however, a study published in Geriatric Nursing indicates otherwise. In fact, learning to meditate at any age can improve health and feelings of being connected.
It may reduce the potential for Alzheimer’s disease
At the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, regular meditation and certain breathing activities can help to slow the progression of memory deterioration, including Alzheimer’s disease. There are some researchers who believe this is true due to the way meditation protects the brain from stress and anxiety, which can cause symptoms of Alzheimer’s to become worse.
Benefits for caregivers
In addition to being beneficial for seniors, regular meditation can also be beneficial for family caregivers who can meditate with the senior they care for. Taking time daily to meditate creates both a beneficial routine that a senior can anticipate, and a quiet, calming activity to start the day and possibly reduce the potential for stressful situations later.
The key is to learn the proper way to do this. Many cities have yoga studios, healing arts centers or gyms that offer yoga and meditation classes. There may even be a program offered at the YMCA for a discounted price to seniors.
The fact is, anyone, at any age, can enjoy the benefits of meditation.
If you or an aging loved one needs senior care services near Folsom, CA, remember Senior Home Care Services. Call us at (916) 514-7006 for more information.
Source
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2693686
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3057175/
http://newsroom.ucla.edu/portal/ucla/meditation-reduces-loneliness-237463.aspx
http://www.gnjournal.com/article/S0197-4572(05)00379-4/abstract
http://www.bidmc.org/News/In-Research/2013/November/Wells-Meditation.aspx
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