Getting old means dealing with things like losing loved ones, financial loss, and health problems. These are not personal failings but just part of real life. There are some challenges seniors face that go beyond what we can cover here, and those truly need professional help. On the other hand, older adults can experience relatively high rates of emotional well‑being. They tend to prioritize things that bring them meaning and satisfaction. It’s true that I would ditch almost anyone or anything to have time with my far away grandsons. Sorry, not sorry. Seniors also put more energy into positive thoughts and assign less negativity to situations. But when stresses do arise, they can change a person’s outlook. Their well‑being can go into a downward spiral. It is important to remember that there are things we can do to prevent the loss of well‑being and prevent a downward spiral from becoming life‑threatening

1. Connect With Other People

This is so critical. Studies show that social connection is linked to improved emotional and physical health. Being social also reduces the risk of early death. Does talking to my plants count?

In‑person visits, phone calls, emails, and video chats are lifelines. Our emotional health needs connection, so we should practice reaching out. There are plenty of other lonely seniors and even younger people who would love a chat.

I’ve had my share of down times, but I’ve learned that communication helps so much. When I get a cute picture of one of my grandsons, it lights me up, and I send them regularly to my mother‑in‑law, our only remaining parent. Even better, we both enjoy a visit or a phone call with one another.

2. Engage in Meaningful Activities

What brings us joy? We should do those things, whether big or small. Some examples are:

• Reading books
• Learning something online
• Volunteering
• Mentoring
• Singing or playing an instrument
• Writing poetry or stories
• Fishing
• Caring for a pet
• Swapping jokes with grandkids

Joy and meaning are what make life worth living. I absolutely love hanging out with my three‑year‑old grandson. We can be goofy and ridiculous together, laughing hysterically without embarrassment. It feels so happy and freeing. Baking cookies for neighbors gives me meaning too. I love to write, and I just bought a ukulele. Trying new things helps. It really does.

3. Take Care of Our Bodies

Exercise, eat well, and sleep enough. Physical and mental health are deeply connected.

I know firsthand that a brisk walk boosts my mood, while a weekend of junk food does the opposite. Dave and I are determined to do everything in our power to take care of our bodies and minds. We want to move, think, work, and play for many years to come. We both have struggles, but we can only keep on trying.

Unexpected things can happen to all of us, unfortunately. We should talk to our doctors about any aches or conditions that might be affecting our emotional well‑being. Being stubborn or trying to be a hero about our problems is a bad idea. No one wants a cranky hero.

4. Plan for the Future

Having something to look forward to can keep us going. It might be a dinner out, a visit from a friend, or a big trip.

For me, knowing I’ll see my kids or grandkids fills me with anticipatory gladness. I just had a wonderful visit from my best high school friend that I had really been looking forward too. Just having something on the horizon lifts our spirits.

5. Develop Coping Strategies

The longer we live, the more we face tough emotions. There are healthy ways to manage them. When my mom passed, I struggled deeply, and I wish I had talked to a grief counselor. Processing emotions takes time and support. Coping Strategies include:

• Talking to someone trustworthy
• Journaling
• Meditation
• Spiritual or religious practices

6. Seek Professional Help

Sometimes all the other steps aren’t enough. If we are feeling hopeless, depressed, or just “off,” we need to talk to a therapist or counselor as soon as possible.

I started therapy in my late 50s, and it was life‑changing. I wish I’d gone twenty‑five years earlier. Studies show that therapy‑based interventions are highly effective for combatting negative emotions.

There’s a stigma around mental and emotional health care in older generations. Frankly, that stigma can go straight into the “who cares?” file (right along with a lot of other things). My dad finally agreed to antidepressants in his late 70s and felt like a new man. We don’t need to wait. We deserve to feel good.

7. Learn the Warning Signs

Signals that Someone may be Struggling:

• Changes in mood
• Decreased appetite
• Sleep changes
• Problems with daily functioning
• Giving away possessions

Don’t be shy about asking someone if they’re in a bad place, regardless of how they might react. Let’s look out for each other.