Anxiety is the most common mental health condition found in seniors. According to a study, about 20% of older adults suffer from anxiety. Anxiety disorders can have a serious impact on seniors’ quality of life. Thankfully, there are several methods to relieve anxiety issues in seniors. Stress from being dependent on others is one of the most common causes of increased anxiety in seniors. Other causes may include the cost of living or medical expenses, social isolation or loneliness, and fear of medical emergencies. This makes it essential to understand the signs of anxiety in seniors.
Having difficulty sleeping, being irritable, startling easily, etc., can be symptoms of anxiety disorders in older adults. However, seniors are more likely to mention their physical symptoms than mental or emotional. In this blog, we will discuss how you can relieve anxiety issues in your aging adults. Here are some effective ways you can help your senior loved one relieve anxiety.
Breathing Exercises
Breathing exercises are one of the effective ways to manage the physiological symptoms of anxiety in seniors. Deep breathing helps you get more carbon dioxide in your blood, which can calm the elements of the brain responsible for anxiety. Breathing deeply also activates your parasympathetic nervous system, helping you rest and relax. In addition, breathing exercises can become more effective over time if you make them a habit.
Diet Changes
Getting the proper nutrition you need is essential for your mental and physical health. Food fuels the brain, so eating a balanced diet will help you manage anxious feelings. Seniors should eat a variety of healthy foods at every meal. In addition, some substances such as caffeine and nicotine are directly connected to increased anxiety. So, avoiding smoking and large doses of caffeine help keep your mind and body relaxed.
Social Interaction
Regular social interaction can also help relieve anxiety issues in aging adults. Unfortunately, most seniors experience social isolation and loneliness. Helping older adults cope with loneliness or social isolation can be a great way to relieve anxiety and other mental health issues.
Spending time with family is an excellent way of social support. Regular interaction with siblings, children, grandchildren, or other family members can distract seniors from stressful feelings and improve their mood.
Sleep
Generally, seniors need 7 to 9 hours of sleep to maintain good physical and mental health. A lack of sleep can increase anxious feelings in seniors. In addition, anxiety disorders can also make it more difficult to sleep. Getting enough sleep improves productivity and overall quality of life. Seniors can benefit from better sleep, and it can play an important role in achieving that goal.
Counseling
Regular counseling is also an effective way to relieve anxiety disorders. People of all ages can benefit from counseling. Most seniors find it more comfortable to speak with an unbiased professional about their mental health concerns than with friends or family.
Conclusion
We hope you have understood how you can relieve anxiety issues in your aging adults. Physical activity, a balanced diet, social interaction, and enough sleep are essential to maintaining seniors’ good physical and mental health. Unfortunately, anxiety can be a major problem for older adults that can affect their physical and mental health.
If your senior loved ones are dealing with anxiety issues, Foremost Seniors can help. Our team of counselors specializes in working with seniors who have several mental health concerns. Visit us to know more about our services.
