Reduce stress levels now for Xmas

With Christmas approaching, many older adults hosting annual festivities will be beginning to feel stressed.

In order to improve mental health over the holidays, industry professionals are advising individuals to take action now to manage their stress levels.

Neil Shah, director of the Stress Management Society, advises older adults to start making lists to alleviate Christmas pressure.

"Write out your list of things to do, then strike through the tasks that are neither urgent nor essential," Mr Shah advised. "Look at what's left and see what you could delegate."

Individuals are also advised to set a time when preparation ends and enjoyment begins.

On the day, cooking turkey or Pheasant can improve mental calmness, as they contain tryptophan, which is a calming brain chemical.

Research has previously shown that patients with depression who suffer relapses often do so when starved of tryptophan, which is the chemical precursor of serotonin.

Tryptophan can be boosted by antidepressants in patents that experience depression relapse.

Read about support and personalised care at Barchester care homes for anyone with mental health concerns.