Boredom is a feeling that we all experience at one time or another, but feeling bored and under-stimulated too often can be harmful to health and wellbeing long-term. Being bored sometimes is a natural part of life for the average individual. The very nature of life requires a high level of steady maintenance for continued health and success. Daily routines are often necessary, but can become extremely tedious without variety and excitement.
We all have moments in our day or times during the week where we have nothing interesting to do, or just can’t seem to find anything that grabs our attention enough to keep us stimulated and engaged. Occasional boredom is alright, but some seniors find themselves feeling increasingly bored as time goes on. Older adults may find themselves beginning to worry that boredom will become a staple in their everyday lives, which can be a serious cause for concern. There are many ways for seniors to banish boredom and keep themselves interested and happy in the goings-on of their everyday lives. Sometimes, it just takes a little exploration and ingenuity to find the right pursuits and activities.
Studies indicate that individuals who experience excess boredom in their lives are at an increased risk for heart attacks, stroke, and earlier death than those who are stimulated and content on a regular basis. Boredom itself can be an uncomfortable state to be in for extended periods of time and seniors who are perpetually bored may become at a greater risk of experiencing the following:
The later stages of life can introduce an assortment factors which can put seniors at a higher risk of experiencing more frequent boredom. Shifting family roles, retirement, and general life changes can often result in seniors no longer being involved in many of the things that once kept them busy, occupied, and stimulated. Older age is a whole new kettle of fish, and seniors who have let social relationships and regular activities fall by the wayside can find themselves with little to do.
Neglected activities, events, hobbies, and plans with friends and family can lead to social isolation and severe boredom. Seclusion and loneliness are commonly experienced by seniors and the loss of routine held prior to retirement can be challenging to deal with.
Boredom can present significant emotional and cognitive challenges, but there are many ways seniors can reduce the amount of time they spend feeling bored so they can continue to enjoy a high quality of daily living.
Incessant boredom can be a nasty thing to have to deal with, but there are so many ways to keep busy without over-exerting oneself. The key is striking the right balance between activity and down-time to prevent stewing in boredom and the negative emotions and thoughts that can so often accompany it.
Â
We service all of Waterloo Region & surrounding areas.