It’s that time of the year when our thoughts turn to thankfulness. Experts say, however, that gratitude should be an ongoing practice, not just a few times a year. Gratitude in senior living is particularly beneficial for residents. Of course, showing gratitude is easier for some people than others.

As we age, many of us are quick to complain about aches, pains, and physical limitations. What if we flip the narrative, and start acknowledging all the goodness in our lives? What if we start each morning grateful for another day?

One way to do this is shift your perspective. Let’s say you’re stuck in a massive traffic jam on the highway due to a serious accident. Instead of fuming that you’ll be late for wherever you’re headed, be thankful that you weren’t in the accident. You can even go so far as to send out positive thoughts on behalf of those who were in the crash.

Squinting to see the fine print? Be grateful you can avoid reading the day’s crime- and corruption-filled headlines. Your hearing’s not what it used to be? Just smile and nod when anyone gives you unsolicited advice. Can’t stop and smell the roses? Thank the heavens you can’t smell  someone’s overpowering perfume (or other unpleasant odors).

Instead of dwelling on past negative experiences or on the loss of loved ones, remember the good times. “I am thankful for memories made with those that I love!” says Susan Hughes, Meadowood Chief of Staff.

There’s more to giving gratitude than just a feel-good vibe. The benefits of gratitude for seniors extend to all ages. Research has shown a direct correlation between gratitude and overall well-being. An article published by Harvard Medical School cites studies showing that those who practice gratitude are more optimistic about their lives and have better relationships with their partners. And those on the receiving end benefit as well. No surprise, employees who are shown appreciation work harder. Gratitude has physical benefits, too, including boosted immunity, lower blood pressure, and improved sleep.

“I am thankful for all the opportunities I have been given throughout my lifetime to get me where I am today: Meadowood!” says maintenance staff member Ed Berkmire. Gratitude is especially valuable in the workplace, which is why many companies now do 360-degree reviews, where employees rate their managers and coworkers. Gratitude goes both ways — top down and down up — that is, employees can and should thank their managers when it is deserved.

The same can be said for parents and children or grandchildren. We’re always reminding little ones: “Did you say thank you?” But when is the last time you expressed thanks to a younger family member? This serves to reinforce positive behavior, perhaps even more so than punishment. It also models the act of giving gratitude. Your thank-you could be an acknowledgment like “Thank you for smiling so sweetly” or something as simple as “I’m grateful to have you in my life.” Here’s what Becky Anhorn, Director of Fitness and Wellness, has to say: “I am thankful for my son who made me a Mama. He has taught me to see the world through a different lens and make every day a good day.”

At Meadowood, we pride ourselves on our service and commitment to our residents. We know the importance of gratitude in senior care, which is why we show appreciation to our residents in many ways. We know that healing is not just about the physical. As our Meadowell philosophy reflects, well-being also includes the emotional. “I am grateful for all the connections I am able to make and be my authentic self. Being able to use my vulnerability as a superpower to share my story with others provides healing of the hearts of others,” says Nancy Kocher, Director of Housekeeping and Laundry Services. “It gives them strength and comfort knowing that they are not alone. This brings me joy, fulfillment and purpose in my heart. I am grateful for connections.”

Practicing gratitude does not always have to involve others. Keeping a gratitude journal is a private, personal, inward-looking activity that also can boost well-being. The good news is that journaling for even just 5 minutes a day can have a positive impact. Some folks journal before they go to bed, some upon waking, and some do both. If you skip a day, don’t beat yourself up over it. Just pick up where you left off.

Not sure where to start? Here are a few prompts to help you:

• What are you looking forward to today/tomorrow?
• Did a pet add joy to your life? How?
• What makes you feel safe? Why?
• What energizes you and why?
• What makes you laugh?
• Do you have a favorite piece of clothing? How does it make you feel?
• How did you face and overcome an obstacle?
• Do you have a daily ritual? Write about it.
• Write a love note to yourself.
• What colors make you happy?
• Describe your favorite dessert.
• When was the last time you received or wrote a thank-you letter and why?
• Think about your first kiss.
• Who do you admire and why?

The options are endless. Be sure to stick with it; studies have shown that it takes about three weeks to form a new habit.

And if you’re looking for something special to give a friend or loved one at holiday time, a beautiful journal can make a most thoughtful gift.