Mental health and coping
A common mood disorder often mistaken as a “normal aging”
Depression
Staying in touch with friends and family helps prevent this painful feeling
Loneliness
__ minutes per day of light physical activity can increase life expectancy by up to 3 years
15 minutes
A common symptom of depression in older adults that affects mood
Persistent sad or empty feeling
Helping others—by volunteering, calling a neighbour, or sharing your wisdom—can give you this warm sense of ______.
Purpose
Doing puzzles, reading, or learning something new every day helps keep this part of you strong
Your brain or mind
Often used to treat mild depression and anxiety
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
Even small conversations, like chatting with a store clerk or a neighbour, support this important part of well-being
Social connection
“Feel-good” chemicals in the brain that help with mood, which are often released when doing physical activity.
Endorphins
The ability to adapt to stress and bounce back from challenges.
Resilience
Group activities like cards, walking clubs, or community classes help build this feeling of “I belong.”
Community
Simple exercises like lifting light weights, using resistance bands, or doing chair exercises help build this.
Strength
Something that prevents older adults from talking about mental health
Stigma
When you notice a small achievement, like finishing a walk or helping a friend, and feel proud, you are practicing this
Gratitude, pride, or self-appreciation
Learning something new—like a language or instrument—helps build this brain ability to form new pathways.
Neuroplasticity