Building Your Self-Esteem As You Age
Self-esteem is the way you see yourself and feel about yourself. It’s the confidence you have in your abilities, both physically and mentally. As you age, that self-esteem can drop as you transition into different stages of your life. But just because you’re getting older doesn’t mean honing your self-confidence and esteem isn’t important.
Strong levels of self-esteem can improve your well-being, life satisfaction, and overall health. As you age, it’s essential to continue building your self-esteem to continue thriving in your golden years.
Tips To Build Your Self-Esteem
Building your self-esteem is about feeling comfortable and confident in your body and your abilities. Like any part of your well-being, your self-esteem is something you must maintain and continue to work at. Consider these tips for helping yourself feel confident in your skin.
Get Active
Many studies show that physical activity, exercise, and fitness improve self-esteem. While there is a vanity aspect to physical activity because it can change your body, the physical transformation is not what’s most important.
As you age, your body undergoes many changes, some of which are not ideal, like decreased mobility or loss of muscle mass. These physical changes can affect your ability to do everyday things with ease. However, regular exercise can improve mobility, balance, strength, and overall health, making it easier for you to go about daily activities. And the easier it is for you to do basic tasks, the more confident and self-sufficient you’ll become.
Join A Social Group
Social isolation and loneliness are growing concerns for older Americans. Many older adults start experiencing less vibrant social lives as they age, making individuals feel reclusive. Maintaining a social life and keeping up with social interactions encourages self-worth and can make you feel like you’re a part of something.
A social group can be any form of regular social interaction, whether it’s recurring lunch dates with a small group of friends, joining an art club, or volunteering at a local nonprofit. If you face mobility or transportation limitations, consider an online social form, such as book clubs or interest groups.
Try Something New
You’re never too old to try something new. You may not learn things as quickly as you once did, and there may be learning curves with some activities, but your age isn’t a factor in whether or not you can try something outside your comfort zone. Once you master something new, you’ll be immensely proud and realize you can overcome challenging obstacles.
Have Fun With Your Appearance
There are many stereotypes about how you should look and dress when you get older. But your age doesn’t dictate how you have to look. You’re never too old to try the latest fashion, get an edgy haircut, or do something bold with your makeup.
Get creative and have fun with your appearance. Use your appearance as a way to express yourself. Don’t feel like you must fit in a box because of your age. The more comfortable and confident you are in your appearance, the higher your self-esteem will be.
Building Self-Esteem With Visiting Angels
If you want to build your self-esteem but need a push, the caregivers at Visiting Angels of Gadsden are happy to provide the support you need. Our caregivers’ primary goal is to improve clients' well-being, whatever that looks like. If that means you need a companion to join you on neighborhood walks, provide transportation to a social gathering, or help you find a new hobby, we’re happy to help.
Aside from basic companionship, Visiting Angels helps with nonmedical tasks to encourage independence and aging in place. Caregivers can assist with light housekeeping, medication reminders, meal preparation, personal grooming, and mobility.
Contact us to learn more about our at-home care services.