You will no doubt be familiar with the famous pyramid of existential needs for human beings, based on a study by Abraham Maslow, an American humanist psychologist. After the Second World War, Maslow asked himself about motivation. In response to the question: what are the stages we need to go through in order to develop motivational skills (which we could also define as a desire to move forward, to live), he ranked the fundamental needs, observing that when these are well met, the person develops great energy and well-being.

It's important to understand that these needs change at every age and at every stage of life. That's why I've put together a special "senior" book for you. Happier, more fulfilled, so you can live a longer, more fulfilling life.

Physiological replenishment:

It's obvious: to prolong life as long as possible, it's essential to eat well.  As the body's expectations change with age, a different approach to diet is sometimes necessary, and the advice of nutritionists is recommended. Getting a good night's sleep, breathing properly and looking after your health are priorities at any age, but the difficulties can increase as you get older, and require special care and attention as solutions and adjustments are expected and recommended.

Safety and security:

With declining strength and mobility, many people feel increasingly insecure as they get older and need to get around. This need will be harder to meet. An increasing number of online services are helping to ease this feeling by avoiding the need to leave the house to avoid danger. There are many services available for this purpose. Don't forget to take inspiration from our service providers on seniorlife.be.

Among the insecurities, there will be those linked to money. Small pensions, increased medical costs, housing, creativity is the order of the day for people on low incomes, as their purchasing power may be reduced. For others, it may be the fear of their children's future that restructures their consumption to save money.

The need to belong and affection

Although it comes third, it is essential for everyone to be connected if they are to have the will to live. Age and a decline in activities can sometimes make this notion of affection and togetherness more difficult to achieve. This need is sometimes impacted by widowhood, distance from children and the loss of friends. Studies show that loneliness is higher in the over 75s than in other age groups.

Activities between people should therefore be set up and encouraged. The need to be cuddled and touched, and to talk and share is a vital driving force. Between peers or intergenerationally, every interaction will be essential to nurture. New therapeutic techniques have been developed to meet this need: cuddle therapy, for example.

Despite the taboos that are still all too often present, sexuality can remain active and should even be encouraged. It's an activity that allows the development of rejuvenating hormones and obvious emotional fulfilment. Of course, sexual activity is different but, adapted to your age, it's so satisfying. We'll talk about this in a future blog.

The need for esteem and recognition

It's not easy feeling older. The decline in physical power and activities sometimes makes people feel depressed and afraid.  This has an impact on self-esteem, self-confidence and confidence in one's skills and abilities. Over the last few decades in our countries, older people have lost their role within the family clan. They are more alone today, whereas a century ago in our homes, they still had a role to play. From volunteering opportunities to a professional activity that complements their pension, to creative activities, everything is possible to imagine being active and proud of oneself.

So we're encouraging lonely older people to find activities that create links and recognition. To this end, Seniorlife.be is building its social network: Senior.life, which will be active in the coming weeks.

The need for self-fulfilment.

At the top of the pyramid, when all needs are properly encouraged, comes the need for self-fulfilment. Perhaps in the form of looking back on your life and your achievements. What you still want to do. To keep as much autonomy as possible, all sorts of tools are available. Websites like ours can help you meet your needs and find solutions. Continuing to meet people, go sightseeing, enjoy culture and sport (even on a slower pace), encouraging activities that promote zenitude, well-being and pleasure, to help you achieve your full potential.

For each of these needs, observe them and consider new avenues. How can we meet them today, what is missing from life to be in balance with ourselves?  There are solutions for everything. And how do you meet your needs?

Sophie Mercier