Why Cultivating Gratitude is a Great Science-Backed Happiness Hack for Seniors.

Loneliness among seniors has become an epidemic. Feelings of depression and isolation are also commonly reported among our elders.

Here’s some good news:

At the University of California, they have found that cultivating gratitude can have amazing benefits to a person’s health and well-being.

The study showed cultivating gratitude on a regular basis resulted in higher levels of alertness, enthusiasm, determination, optimism, and energy.

It was also found that the people who practiced gratitude have less depression and stress, and are more likely to help others and exercise more.

According to science, people who feel grateful were also more likely to feel loved.

Gratitude can be an easy thing to add to your activity calendar. You could easily start a Gratitude Club that meets every Friday over coffee to discuss the week in a positive light. Start by asking everyone in your group who their hero was this week. Ask them to discuss why they are thankful for their friends and/or family. Brainstorm a way to make a positive impact on the home or their community. The great thing about gratitude is that it’s not just for seniors, but caregivers, staff and you will get a positive boost from it as well!

Change up your programming, your seniors will thank you.

See more here.