8 Dimensions of Wellness that can Change Seniors Lives

8 Dimensions of Wellness that can Change Seniors Lives

Wellness can be defined as a state of good health, especially as an actively pursued goal in multiple areas of your life. Wellness is more than being free of physical or emotional sickness, wellness is a lifelong journey of pursuing the things that bring you joy and allow you to live a fulfilling life. Continue reading to learn more about the 8 dimensions of wellness and how to spot them within your life. 

 

Emotional

Emotional wellness relates to your ability to cope with life and stressful situations. Becoming aware of your feelings and acknowledging them, both good and bad, helps develop inner strength. Your emotional wellness can also determine how satisfied you are in relationships, how you view yourself, and how you handle challenges that are unique to aging. 

Signs you possess emotional wellness are: 

  • You’re comfortable with yourself
  • You have a sense of purpose in your life 
  • You’re capable of handling stressful situations
  • You’re not easily emotionally overwhelmed 

 

Vocational

Vocational wellness is associated with your ambitions and satisfaction with your interests or work. Seniors especially offer unique skill sets to the organizations and communities they work or volunteer for. Dedicating yourself to projects that you have a genuine interest in and working with people you enjoy can give you a sense of fulfillment and enrich your life. 

Signs you possess vocational wellness are: 

  • You look forward to going to work or pursuing your interests
  • You feel valued and appreciated within your community or organization 
  • You are excited by new projects and enjoy contributing ideas 
  • You feel like you can make a difference within your community or organization through your efforts 

 

Intellectual

Intellectual wellness is linked to engaging your mind and participating in stimulating activities. Continuously pursuing knowledge and personal growth keeps life exciting and encourages open-mindedness. Getting involved in cultural or scholastic activities that require critical thinking or problem solving allows you to exercise your brain, support cognitive function, and improve comprehension abilities. 

Signs you possess intellectual wellness are: 

  • You’re able to develop your own ideas and opinions 
  • You enjoy exploring new places, opportunities, and ideas
  • You know who you are and what you stand for 
  • You consider yourself a lifelong learner 

 

Environmental

Environmental wellness is connected to your surroundings and how they support your overall well-being. Finding an environment that you enjoy and feel comfortable in can promote positive habits, an active lifestyle, and relationship building. For many seniors, connecting with like-minded individuals in a pleasant space is achieved by joining a senior living community. 

Signs you possess environmental wellness are: 

  • You feel energized by the space you live in 
  • You enjoy spending time in your home 
  • You feel safe in your environment 
  • You actively work within your community to make improvements to where you live for the benefit of yourself and others

 

Financial

Financial wellness relates directly to your ability to manage money and plan for your financial future. Keeping track of expenses, being aware of your spending habits, and actively saving are all important to maintaining financial wellness. Seniors in particular can become vulnerable to fraud, identity theft, or elderly financial abuse. It’s important to remain prudent and aware of your finances to ensure your financial wellness.

Signs you possess financial wellness are: 

  • You actively follow a budget 
  • You stay up-to-date on financial scams and don’t give out your personal information 
  • You often find yourself talking to your grandchildren or community members about positive financial habits, such as saving or investing
  • You shop for the best rates on insurance or medications before making a purchase

 

Social 

Social wellness describes your communication skills and your willingness to put effort into creating intimate and meaningful connections with others. Seniors who have an active social life can avoid feelings of isolation, loneliness, and depression. Maintaining meaningful relationships with family and community members also allows you to develop a sense of belonging within your social circle. 

Signs you possess social wellness are: 

  • You have close relationships with people you care about
  • You’re active in your community through discussions, clubs, or volunteer work 
  • You can balance social time and personal time 
  • You appreciate and value the contributions of those around you 

 

Spiritual

Spiritual wellness is defined by your personal opinions and practices related to religious faith, values, ethics, and morals. You don’t have to be religious to appreciate or benefit from spiritual wellness. Knowing who you are and what you stand for allows you to develop a sense of strength, peace, and hope. 

Signs you possess spiritual wellness are: 

  • You feel like your life has meaning
  • You practice mindfulness through meditation or awareness exercises
  • You act in ways that are consistent with your values and beliefs 
  • You respect those who have different beliefs

 

Physical

Physical wellness consists of maintaining a healthy body and mind through clean eating, exercise, sleep, and preventative care. Prioritizing your physical well-being is important because it affects every aspect of your life, including the other dimensions of wellness! For seniors, staying active and fit can help you avoid health problems in the future and improve physical resilience. 

Signs you possess physical wellness are: 

  • You exercise for at least 30 minutes every day 
  • You prioritize healthy eating
  • You understand the connection between your physical well-being and your mental well-being 
  • You maintain a regular sleep schedule 

 

As we’ve learned, overall wellness is so much bigger than simply feeling ‘well’. Wellness encompasses 8 dimensions within your life: emotional, vocational, intellectual, environmental, financial, social, spiritual, and physical. Don’t feel as if you have to tackle each dimension of wellness at once – wellness is a personal journey of discovery, fulfillment, and well-being. 

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