Promote Feelings Of Independence

Another possible cause of age-related drops in self-esteem is a loss of independence because of physical and cognitive decline.

When an older person worries if they can still safely live on their own or their family questions their ability to perform certain activities like drive, it can eat away at their sense of proficiency, control, and identity.

So rather than dwelling on inevitable defeats, we should all encourage an aging loved one to focus on what they can control and do for themselves, even if they require some assistance or adaptations when performing specific tasks. A little kindness can always go a long way!