Mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety in older adults, are more common than many may think. WebMD says about one in four seniors experience such issues. Depression and dementia are the most common, followed by anxiety.
Occasional anxiousness is normal. However, it can be detrimental to senior mental health if it already affects one’s daily life, especially in the long run. For this reason, older adults and their loved ones must know more about this condition and:
- Its causes
- Its symptoms
- Ways to cope
In this guide, the compassionate team at SummerHouse Ashton Manor, our senior living community in Luling, LA, will explore those anxiety-related topics. Please read on, as what you learn here can help you or an older loved one who experiences symptoms cope better with this condition.
Anxiety in Older Adults: What It Is and Potential Causes
Anxiety is an unpleasant, negative feeling of:
- Fear
- Discomfort
- Uneasiness
- Dread
- Impending danger or doom
While anxiety can cause adverse and distressing emotions, it can be a natural human response to potential threats and stress. Sometimes, feeling anxious can be “beneficial” by encouraging people to prepare for challenges and take action.
Unfortunately, anxiety can turn into a problem if it becomes:
- Chronic
- Difficult to manage
- Disproportionate to the situation
- An impediment to one’s activities of daily living (ADLs), enjoyment of life, and general well-being
Anxiety in older adults can stem from causes unique or related to aging. Let’s explore the top ones in more detail below.
Death and Bereavement of a Loved One
The passing of a loved one is one of the most stressful and painful experiences due to the permanent loss it causes. So, it’s also no wonder that the National Institute on Aging says it’s one of the most common risk factors for depression in older adults. Moreover, this major life event can trigger or worsen anxiety in seniors.
When a loved one, whether a spouse, family member, or close friend, passes away, older adults may experience profound grief. It can manifest as sadness and anxiety as one worries about life without the other person.
It may also result in anxiety as it increases awareness of one’s mortality. Older adults who’ve lost someone dear to them may begin to worry about their future.
Losing a loved one, especially a spouse or life partner, also often leads to changes in daily life and responsibilities. The chores and tasks a couple once shared now fall solely on the widow or widower. The thought of managing all these can be overwhelming and anxiety-provoking.
Loss of Independence or Mobility
The inability to accomplish ADLs results in seniors losing independence, mobility, or both. It can make them anxious because it can:
- Erode their self-esteem, given that independence is a cornerstone of one’s identity
- Make them feel worthless, as they now have to rely on others
- Result in overthinking, such as whether their loved ones think they’re a burden
- Diminish their ability to make decisions and manage their life, which can further add to a sense of helplessness
The inability to perform ADLs becomes more common as one ages. An article on Nature.com states that about 70% of adults 65+ require ongoing assistance after losing their ability to accomplish at least two ADLs.
Long-Term Health Problems
Older adults with chronic health problems may constantly feel anxious as they stress about managing complex care plans. For example, they may worry about forgetting to take their proper medications on time.
Seniors may also become anxious as they think about their symptoms worsening. They may also dread being alone when a health emergency occurs or worry about no longer being able to do things they love.
Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety in Seniors
Anxiety in older adults can manifest as physical, mental, and cognitive signs. Some of the most common symptoms are:
- Excessive worry and fear
- Difficulty staying calm
- Agitation, being on “edge,” or constantly pacing around
- Irritability and being quick to get angry or frustrated
- Avoiding social situations
- Preoccupation with health
- Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things
- Fatigue or tiredness, poor sleep quality, or changes in sleeping habits
- Stomach and appetite problems
- Pain, such as headaches and muscle tension
- Trembling, sweating, and palpitations
Coping With Anxiety in One’s Golden Years
Healthy lifestyle behaviors foster physical, mental, and emotional wellness in aging. Here are some excellent habits and strategies for anxiety and stress management for seniors:
- Talk it out and share experiences and feelings with loved ones and friends
- Join in-person or online support groups for people, including other seniors, with anxiety disorders
- Practice yoga, deep breathing, and mindfulness for older adults
- Become more physically active (e.g., through regular senior-friendly exercises like walking, cycling, chair yoga, and Tai Chi)
- Get seven to nine hours of restful sleep each night
- Spend time in nature or green spaces (e.g., gardens and parks like Westbank Bridge Park, Boutte Community Park, and Lagattuta Park in Luling, LA)
Seniors who live alone and worry about ADLs should also consider transitioning to a warm and welcoming memory care and assisted living community in Luling, LA. Our senior living community, SummerHouse Ashton Manor, is a perfect example, desirably located at 270 Ashton Plantation Blvd. In our community, residents have round-the-clock access to supportive services delivered by our highly experienced and compassionate personal care team.
Moreover, SummerHouse Ashton Manor is proud of its many on-site amenities and exclusive senior living programs. From chef-prepared meals to daily activities and events that promote physical fitness, socialization, and cognitive engagement, you or an older loved one in Luling, LA, can enjoy all these (and much more) in our community!
Minimize Anxiety’s Impact on Your Golden Years
Although anxiety in older adults is prevalent, it doesn’t mean it’s an inevitable part of aging. Maintaining social connections, being physically and socially active, and practicing mindfulness can all help seniors manage stress and anxious thoughts.
If you or an aging family member wants to live a maintenance-free lifestyle and enjoy fewer worries and anxieties, SummerHouse Ashton Manor is here to help. In our beautiful Luling, LA, assisted living and memory care community, you can enjoy high-quality personal care, attentive support, and many amenities to live your golden years to the fullest.
Reach out today to discover more about us and schedule your tour of our pet-friendly community!
