Aging is a journey that presents its own set of challenges and opportunities, particularly when it comes to mental health. To better understand how we can stay resilient and mentally fit as we age, we sat down with Allison Virtue, a seasoned therapist with extensive experience in providing advocacy and therapeutic services to seniors. Allison shares her insights into aging with grace in a conversation filled with wisdom and practical advice.
The Journey to Senior Therapy
Allison Virtue’s path to becoming a therapist for seniors is rooted in a profound dedication to enhancing the lives of those in long-term care settings. “What inspired me to become a social worker, specializing in therapy for seniors, was the realization that mental health is just as important as physical health, especially as we age,” Allison emphasizes. Her work with Total Life across the nation has reinforced this belief.
Building Resiliency Through Daily Habits
During our conversation, Allison outlined several exercises and routines to foster resilience and maintain a positive mindset. “A habit of daily recording in some way, whether it’s journaling or another method, helps you reach back to moments of positivity,” she advises. Even if traditional journaling doesn’t appeal to you, finding a way to revisit positive experiences regularly is invaluable. Physical health goes hand in hand with mental well-being. “Make sure you’re getting enough calories and that you’re moving your body in healthy ways,” she notes. Building resilience is a process, one grounded in consistent habits. “Resiliency almost always comes from habits,” says Allison. Whether diet, movement, or staying engaged with others, developing routines that nurture these areas can ease life’s challenges. 
Tailored Approaches to Mental Health
Tailoring routines to fit individual needs is essential. Allison explains, “It’s about figuring out who you are, where you are, and what’s going to help you most right now.” For some, this might mean going out less often due to the energy demands of chronic illness, while others might need to increase their social interactions. There is no one-size-fits-all solution.
Mental Health and Aging
Reflecting on the significance of mental health as we age, Allison shares a critical insight: “Better is always worth working towards.” She encourages everyone, regardless of age, to strive for improvement. “Even if your life up till now has been difficult, who you are now can still make choices that make life better,” she asserts.
Actionable Mental Fitness Tips
Allison recommends challenging negative self-talk for those seeking practical tips to enhance their mental health. “We do not improve through shame,” she states. Instead, cultivate a voice that reassures and encourages growth. Developing a positivity-focused mindset and celebrating small achievements can pave the way for improvement. 
Integrating Mental Activities
Beyond physical activities, mental exercises are crucial. “A positivity or gratitude list at the end of the day can be transformative,” Allison suggests. Deep breathing and meditation also effectively calm the mind and connect with one’s body. Simple techniques, like rhythmic breathing, can significantly ease stress.
Choosing What Works for You
Ultimately, Allison underscores the importance of personalizing routines. For instance, looking at a gratitude list can vary in frequency based on individual needs. “If you’re not sure how often you need it, build a routine of checking it daily,” she recommends. Over time, adjust as needed to maximize the benefits.
Embracing the Path to Better Mental Health
For those inspired by Allison’s insights and eager to take proactive steps, visiting TotalLife.com to explore therapy sessions covered by Medicare is a valuable next step. Remember, “It’s never too late to start taking care of your mental health,” as host Neelam Brar reminds us. Incorporating these strategies into our daily lives can enrich our journey into aging, ensuring it’s filled with wisdom, resilience, and joy. Stay mindful, stay healthy, and keep thriving.
