Tag Archives: mental health

They say baking soothes the soul. How can it not? There is something so reassuring about the ritual – quietly weighing out ingredients, whisking, beating, folding and kneading. It is not just indulging in the end results – the cake, the biscuits, the scones – that helps to brighten up a …

There is something just inherently good about getting out in nature. This is why green spaces and natural environments within neighbourhoods and residential built are essential for the health and well-being of older adults. Firstly, they can provide older adults with an opportunity to be active physically and socially. Secondly, …

This year’s theme for Mental Health Awareness Week theme is “Nature is Key” It is estimated that over 20% of adults aged 60 and over suffer from a mental or neurological disorder. 6.6% of all disability among over 60s are attributed to neurological and mental disorders. The most common neuropsychiatric …

Winter weather can take a toll on everyone, especially older adults. Because it can be difficult and dangerous to get around, many older adults may have less contact with others during cold months. This can add to feelings of loneliness and isolation. To help avoid these issues, there is a …

Disclaimer: This topic is a very sensitive one and I have aimed to treat it with the respect it deserves. If you are experiencing feelings of depression and suicide, please do not ignore them. Talk to your GP or one of the services listed at the bottom of this article. …

What a week we’ve had – and it is only Wednesday! Most of the country experienced a rude awakening from mother nature on Sunday night, all too familiar for many of us in the South Island who have lived through the 2010/11 quakes and subsequent aftershocks. The sheer terror earthquakes …

Fifty years ago, when the current residents of New Zealand rest homes were in their thirties and forties, the word ‘gay’ didn’t mean what it does today. It is understandable that older people have held onto some of the stigma attached to homosexuality that existed in their younger years. But …

Walking – exercise that is both fun and free Getting fit and keeping active is essential for maintaining long-term health and well-being. If you’re looking for a simple and cheap way to stay fit and healthy as you age, walking could be just what the doctor ordered as its simple, …

I am a member of the CSPC (Canterbury Sports Performance Gym) here in Christchurch and a lot of the times I have gone I have noticed various other members of my gym lifting much heavier weights than myself in various exercises. Most of these people compete competitively in the weight …

Bodies are built to move and when we don’t move enough it impacts on our health and wellbeing. It wasn’t so long ago that many believed older people could put their feet up and relax after a busy lifetime of activity but that thinking has gone firmly out the window. …