Anxiety is a prevalent mental health issue that can affect anyone of all ages, including seniors. However, it often goes unrecognized, which can lead to bigger issues. Understanding the signs of anxiety in seniors is important for senior home care and loved ones to be able to give appropriate care and support.
Common Signs of Anxiety in Seniors
Anxiety in seniors may manifest differently than in younger people, which is why it’s important for senior home care providers and loved ones to know common signs that might indicate seniors are struggling.
Some of the most common signs of anxiety are:
Excessive Worry
Seniors often worry about their health, wealth, or the safety of their loved ones. However, if the worry seems to be out of proportion to the actual risks involved, there might be more to it than just ordinary worry.
Restlessness or Agitation
Feeling continually on edge, pacing, or having trouble relaxing can be signs of worry. Additionally, seniors may feel anxious or uneasy even when there is no obvious cause for concern.
Avoidance Behavior
Anxious seniors may avoid social interactions, family gatherings, or new environments. They may be afraid that something horrible would happen, or they may feel overwhelmed by the prospect of leaving their home.
Physical Issues
Anxiety can cause physical symptoms such as increased heart rate, perspiration, dizziness, exhaustion, and difficulty breathing. Unfortunately, when seniors complain of dizziness or shortness of breath, it might be misconstrued as a medical condition.
Difficulty Sleeping
Insomnia or difficulty falling asleep can be a sign of anxiety. Seniors may lie awake worried about the future or rehashing previous occurrences in their brains. This can be particularly significant, as seniors need a good night’s rest.
How Senior Home Care and Family Members Can Help
Helping a senior with anxiety involves patience, compassion, and the appropriate technique. Senior home care services, as well as family members, can help seniors manage anxiety and improve their quality of life by incorporating the following tips:
Offer Emotional Suport
Listening and providing reassurance are essential when assisting a senior with anxiety. Encourage them to express their anxieties and worries without discounting their emotions. Family members can establish a calm, understanding environment in which their loved one feels comfortable expressing their concerns.
Encourage Routine and Structure
Anxiety can often intensify when there is too much uncertainty. Senior home care can work with seniors and their families to establish a regular routine that helps seniors feel more stable and in control.
Promote Physical Activity and Mindfulness
Exercise is an easy way for seniors to alleviate anxiety, and it helps them get their daily amount of physical activity that’s needed to live a healthy life. Seniors can take a walk, do yoga or chair yoga—depending on their abilities—and Tai Chi. They might also enjoy deep breathing, meditation, and guided visualization, which are also effective relaxation techniques for calming anxious thoughts.
Loved ones or senior home care providers can guide seniors through these activities or offer reminders and encouragement to incorporate them into their regular routine.
It’s essential to understand the signs of anxiety in seniors and know how to offer appropriate support. With the help of senior home care and loved ones, seniors can manage their anxiety and lead a more calm and satisfying life.
If you or someone you know needs Senior Home Care in Granite Falls, MN, contact Adara Home Health. We provide quality and affordable home care services for many fragile or senior members in the communities we serve. Call us at (888) 525-7742 for more information.
Sources:
- https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/guides-and-publications/anxiety-in-older-adults#:~:text=Signs%20that%20an%20older%20adult,avoiding%20routine%20activities
- https://www.cedars-sinai.org/blog/anxiety-in-the-golden-years.html
- https://www.ncoa.org/article/anxiety-and-older-adults-a-guide-to-getting-the-relief-you-need/