Tips To Boost Self-Esteem In Your Golden Years

Introduction

As we age, there are a lot of factors that can have a direct impact our self-esteem. From a change in our circumstances, an accident or fall to illnesses and physical challenges that can develop as we get older.

Relying on others for assistance can also affect an individual’s confidence. You may have noticed that you are not feeling as confident as you once did, or you have noticed a change in a loved one, see below some ways you can boost your own self-esteem or help a loved one regain their confidence.

Day Trips

Plan fun days out, something that you know you will enjoy. You can start small, or locally, as we are in the festive season you could plan a trip out to the garden centre to look at Christmas decorations and stop off for a tea or mulled wine and piece of cake!

Then you can work up to day trips out to castles, ruins, the seaside and stately homes and gardens.

Challenge Your Own Negativity

Have you often found yourself putting yourself down? It is not uncommon for many people to do this without even realising.

For instance, you’ve just got dressed, looking in the mirror you say to yourself that you don’t look good today. If you notice thoughts like this, challenge them, what is it you don’t like? Maybe you just don’t like the trousers that you have put on anymore, they are no longer your style.

Challenge your negative thoughts and change your trousers, you may feel better! It's not you that you don't like, it's the clothing!

Socialise

Check to see if there are any local groups you can join, such as book clubs, where you can meet new friends and socialise.

If your family live further away, arrange video calls with them or arrange to meet up for a day out. Have coffee mornings with your friends, alternating who’s house you go to each time or test out your local cafes.

Revisit Old or Try New Hobbies

Is there a hobby you used to enjoy, but life got in the way and you somehow stopped participating in your hobby?

Pick it up again; if you used to be a green fingered avid gardener but no longer have a garden have a look if your community have communal gardens for you to help out, or if a family member or friend has an allotment you can assist with or maybe try and get your own?

What’s stopping you from starting a new hobby? Fancy giving painting a try? Give it a go, you can try different hobbies each week if you are unsure which to try. Test a few out each week and see which you enjoy, you're bound to really get into something!

Treat Yourself

There are many ways to treat yourself to boost your self-esteem. For some this could mean buying a new item of clothing, for others it could be putting on your favourite outfit for the day.

It doesn’t need to be something expensive like a spa day, but if that’s what you want, then go ahead! A simple bath and face mask can make all the difference. Or treat yourself to your favourite meal or takeaway!

Modify The Home

Installing some mobility aids around the home can be a great boost to your confidence, by maintaining your independence and removing the difficulties from everyday tasks.

This could mean installing handrails where needed or a seat in the shower, whatever helps you to maintain your independence.

Help At Home

A little bit of help around the home can help your self esteem, from having someone their as a comfort and some reassurance or even just someone to talk to and help with your stresses can take a load off and make you feel happier.

Having someone to prompt you to eat and drink regularly or take your medicines can relieve some of your stresses.

A Carer providing personal care can be a great way to help boost your self-esteem - be sure to take a look at our Personal Care page for more information.