Life is full of adventure, unpredictability, and tried and tested routines. We spend our days seeking and building a brighter future for ourselves and those around us. In order to do so, we must prioritise our mental and physical well-being by taking care of it in different situations. From your everyday routines at home to your working life and beyond, there are several tips and tricks to ensure safety, efficiency, and overall personal health.
Taking care at home
You’ve just moved into your brand new home and can’t wait to fill it with all your trinkets and decor. Before personalising the space to your liking, acquiring the basics is essential. This may include everything from a bed, storage units, a washing machine, and bedding to kitchen items and rubbish bins. If you’re living with someone who requires extra care — possibly an elderly or disabled relative — you may also need to acquire and install appropriate features for them. These may include shower chairs or stairlifts.
It’s also vital to look into the safety mechanisms set in place, including smoke alarms, fire safety packs, first aid kits, and even security cameras, to ensure optimal safety in and around your home. Knowing your home is equipped with the best protection and preventative measures will allow you the peace of mind needed to live comfortably at home.
From there, you may wish to purchase a few other ‘essentials’ that you may not think of straight away. A bed alarm, for example, may become your best friend if you’re eager to get away from your phone and start the day without that tempting scrolling, liking, and commenting. According to a report, approximately 80% of adults use an alarm during the week to start their day. Bed alarms are often essential to keep us on schedule and in a healthy routine. While we may reset, snooze, or sleep through the alarm — the positive intent is there.
Taking care at work
Your alarm has gone off, you’ve enjoyed your breakfast or morning coffee, and are ready to head to the office. Whether your office is inner-city or within your home, there are multiple ways to achieve a healthy, positive work day. This starts with having the finest equipment and office solutions. While you may think your dining room chair will do the trick at home or a flimsy, cheap office chair is safe at work — your back might tell you otherwise. Investing in quality desks and chairs, including boardroom chairs in Melbourne, for your company is essential to uphold and manage workplace well-being.
There are several benefits to incorporating ergonomic furniture into your workplace that go beyond general comfort. Ergonomic chairs, for example, are designed to promote safe, upright positions — reducing stress on your neck, spine, and hips. Headrests, backrests, and strategic padding can prevent a wide range of injuries, arthritis, and other diseases later in life.
When it comes to ergonomic office chairs in Australia, there is a wide range of options to browse. From overall visual aesthetic to build quality, price, and ease of assembly — there are many factors to consider. Available in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and functions, it’s best to understand your own body and physical needs before choosing.
Other office essentials that may boost your work day from a three to a ten may include a standing desk, back rollers, monitors, and laptop stands. Standing desks are known to boost productivity, improve energy levels, improve posture, reduce back pain, improve circulation, and more! They may also reduce your chances of heart disease and other illnesses.
Back rollers can be used in and outside the workplace to release muscle knots, relieve inflammation, and improve overall back comfort after sitting too long on the computer. Foam rollers are perfectly fine to use on a daily basis, especially if you have a sit-down desk job. They will also encourage you to get up and move every half hour to an hour. It’s essential, however, to use said roller properly to avoid further injury or discomfort.
Taking care later in life
As we grow older, our bodies and minds tend to need a little extra love and attention. Whether we reside in an aged care facility, with loved ones, or at home, there are a few key items and features you may wish to acquire — especially if you have mobility issues. From safety mats, walkers, lift chairs, and commodes to speciality cushions and bed rails — there are many ways to create an easier, more comfortable living situation for yourself and others.
When it comes to bed rails in aged care, facilities often use these to ensure optimal safety for their residents. Designed to prevent falls, they are typically used for those with mobility issues, cognitive impairment, or involuntary movement. There are various bed rail styles to choose from, including full-length, high-side rails, and low-side rails, depending on what you require. It’s essential to conduct an individual assessment before implementing the rails to ensure they are the best option for the individual.
It’s also key to understand the risks of bed rails and seek out alternatives if you see fit. While bed rails may seem like an easy option, they may cause undue distress and agitation depending on the physical and mental well-being of the patient/individual.
Some alternatives may include the following:
– Low beds
– Sensor mats
– Crash mats
– Roll guards
– Foam bumpers
– Concave mattresses
When it comes to the emotional well-being of those in aged care facilities, there are several activities and programs that can assist in improving mood and mental health. The level of cognitive function and the mental health of the individual will, of course, determine the positive impact of the activity. It’s essential to understand the needs of the person before diving into a wide range of programs.
Some ideas include:
– Physical board games and cards
– Computer games
– Spending time with animals
– Singing and dancing
– Meditation
– Light exercise
– Yoga
– Gardening or nature-assisted therapy
– Arts and craft
– Buddy programs
From youth to maturity, we see a lot of changes in our physicality and mental state. If and when we can incorporate equipment and activities to manage and promote our well-being, we should. From getting up on time with a trusty alarm clock and ensuring our bodies are cared for in an ergonomic work chair to having the peace of mind that our surroundings are safe as we age — we should do all we can to promote and live a happy, healthy, and comfortable life.
