Happiness is defined as a state of mind of general satisfaction with life. In addition, it can be seen as a constant attitude that remains for long periods of time if the person considers that his or her life is going according to his or her expectations and ideals.
Happiness is a state of mind that people feel from birth to death. It is not exclusive to any particular stage; however, it is experienced differently according to the individual's life cycle. Happiness is not the same for a child, a young adult or an elderly person.
In this regard, Dr. Reynaldo Alarcón (2000) establishes a series of indicators about happiness, stating that: a) it is a feeling of satisfaction experienced by a person based on his or her inner experiences; b) it is reflected in the behavioral states of the individual; c) it has a lasting temporary character; d) happiness implies the possession of a good, which can be of a varied nature such as: material, ethical, aesthetic, psychological, religious, social, among others.
Now, in older adulthood specifically, there is the belief that reaching this stage of life entails physical and mental deterioration, something that is accompanied by the vision of approaching death. This creates the assumption that all this generates unhappiness. However, as in any other stage of life, happiness is a decision, a matter of attitude towards the opportunities that are present in the life of the older adult. Being happy is not just a state of mind, it is a constant attitude (Segura and Ramos, 2009).
According to Segura and Ramos (2009), if an older adult wishes to achieve happiness it is important that:
- Spend a lot of time strengthening relationships with your family and friends.
- Be comfortable expressing gratitude for all that you have and have achieved.
- Engage in activities that you enjoy and generate a sense of comfort.
- Stimulate your mind through intellectually challenging actions.
- Live in the present and be optimistic in imagining your future.
- Make physical exercise a habit in your life.
- Remain committed to your life goals and ambitions.
Based on the deep understanding and experience we have at Verdeza, we consider happiness as a decisive factor in the rehabilitation and quality of life of the elderly. For this reason, we encourage activities that embrace the three dimensions of the human being. In the physical area, we promote exercise, proper nutrition and constant medical control. For the emotional area, we maintain a process of constant affection and socialization both among the residents themselves and with their families. Finally, in the mental area, we encourage the elderly to stay active through cultural and artistic activities that they can enjoy. At Verdeza, we are committed to the happiness of the elderly.
References:
Alarcón, R. (2000). Psychological variables associated with happiness. Persona. 3. 149-157.
Borges, N; Castro, M; Cetina, C; Cruz, B; de los Reyes, M; Novelo, J. (2016). The concept of happiness in elderly people in the City of Merida, Yucatan. Teaching and Research in Psychology. 21 (3). 282-290.
Gil, J and Muñoz, J. (2017). Happiness: Concepts, theories, ways of measurement and discussions. Happiness: Concepts, theories, measurement and discussions. Pedagogical and Technological University of Colombia.
Segura D., M. and Ramos L., V. (2009). Psychology of happiness. Unife. 19(1), 9-25
