6. Five Evidence-Based Strategies for Caregivers

A caregiver and a person after using the strategies (https://vitalmagonline.com/caregivers-corner-finding-a-balance-for-the-caregiver/)

1. Build Emotional Resilience

Research Insight: Mindfulness alleviates stress and enhances emotional well-being in both caregivers and elderly individuals (Goyal et al., 2018).

Levitin’s Perspective: Gratitude and optimism enhance resilience, enabling older people to concentrate on good parts of life.

Actionable Strategy: Incorporate mindfulness techniques like as breathing exercises, gratitude journaling, or reflective storytelling.

2. Facilitate Social Connections

 Research Insight: Social involvement mitigates depression and improves life satisfaction (Holt-Lunstad et al., 2020).

 Levitin’s Perspective: Intergenerational relationships have distinct advantages, blending   wisdom with youthful energy.

Actionable Strategy: Coordinate family gatherings, promote intergenerational mentoring initiatives, or use virtual platforms to sustain relationships.

3. Promote Cognitive Stimulation

Research Insight: Lifelong learning improves memory and executive function (Ball et al., 2020).

Levitin’s Perspective: Varied cognitive activities, including language acquisition and playing music, are especially advantageous.

Actionable Strategy: Motivate your loved one to pursue new interests, enrol in courses, or impart life lessons via storytelling.

4. Support Physical Activity

Research Insight: Physical activity lowers illness risks and enhances happiness (Harvard Aging Study, 2019).

Levitin’s Perspective: Even small amounts of physical activity, yields substantial mental and physical advantageous.

Actionable Strategy: Implement a practical strategy by integrating pleasurable, low-impact hobbies such as dance, gardening, or yoga, tailored to individual preferences

5.     Prioritize Balanced Nutrition

Research Insight: Diets abundant in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats enhance cognitive and physical health (Scarmeas et al., 2019).

Levitin’s Perspective: Levitin posits that nutrient-dense diets, particularly those rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, promote cognitive wellness.

Actionable Strategy: Formulate balanced meals with fish, almonds, leafy vegetables, and a diverse range of fruits.