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The quiet power of gratitude — why saying “thank you” matters for older people and their carers
Gratitude is more than a polite phrase. It’s a simple habit with surprisingly big benefits — for mood, relationships and even physical health. In recent years researchers have shown that structured gratitude practices (journals, letters, short daily reflections) produce measurable improvements in wellbeing and reductions in anxiety and depression symptoms across diverse groups. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
What gratitude actually does — in plain English
When people practice gratitude they pay attention to positive moments, support from others, or things that went well. That attention trains the brain to notice resources rather than threats, which builds resilience. For older adults this can mean better life satisfaction, stronger social bonds and reduced stress — all factors that support healthier ageing. Research looking specifically at older samples finds consistent links between gratitude, social support and life satisfaction. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
Why gratitude matters for family caregivers in Nigeria
Most care for older Nigerians happens at home. Informal carers — often adult children, daughters-in-law or neighbours — juggle work, family and health responsibilities, and many face financial and emotional strain. Policies and formal support remain limited, so simple, low-cost approaches that protect carers’ wellbeing are especially valuable. Gratitude exercises are one such tool: quick, portable, and able to be used in group or one-to-one care settings. (African Journal of Social Work (AJSW))
Real-world examples you can try tomorrow
Three Good Things: at the end of each day, caregiver and older person name three positive moments — small or large — and why they mattered. Fifteen minutes a day can shift mood over time. (shura.shu.ac.uk)
Gratitude visits: invite a family member to read a short note of thanks to an older relative. The emotional lift from being seen and heard often outlasts the moment.
Care-team shout-outs: if a nurse or home carer goes the extra mile, a quick, written thank-you shared with the team boosts morale and accountability.
These are low-cost, culturally adaptable practices that fit into Nigerian family life — whether in Lagos, Kano or smaller towns — and they respect communal values of reciprocity and respect that are central to many Nigerian communities.
How nurse-led care amplifies gratitude
When nurses lead caregiving teams, gratitude practices can be built into clinical routines: brief gratitude reflections during check-ins, or training family carers to use gratitude prompts alongside clinical care. Nurse leadership ensures these practices are safe, person-centred and evidence-informed — marrying compassion with measurable outcomes. Studies show that when gratitude is introduced as a structured intervention, improvements in mood and reduced burnout are recorded across settings. (pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
Small habit, big ripple effects
A daily habit of gratitude doesn’t replace medical care or meaningful support services — but it complements them. For older people, increased social connection and improved emotional wellbeing can mean better adherence to treatment, fewer lonely days and a gentler caregiving experience for family members. For caregivers, it can protect against burnout and strengthen the emotional rewards that help them carry on.
Call to action: If this resonated, try one gratitude exercise today and share the result. Tag a caregiver or older person who deserves thanks — let’s spread small acts that create big change.
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EOON Care believes that excellent elder care blends clinical skill with compassion. Our nurse-led, C.A.R.E. approach (Compassion, Accountability, Respect, Excellence) makes small, evidence-based practices like gratitude part of daily care — boosting wellbeing for both older people and the families who support them. Share this post to raise awareness and help more Nigerian families discover low-cost, high-impact ways to care.
