Senior Anxiety
Anxiety disorder can affect up to 14% of people over the age of 65! The symptoms of anxiety can cause serious decline in health and quality of life.
So What Is Anxiety And How Do I Know If That’s What’s Wrong?
Anxiety is a frequent feeling of intense, excessive, and persistent nervousness, worry, or unease typically about an imminent event, something with an uncertain outcome, or everyday situations. Anxiety can interfere with everyday functions, so it is important to help your loved one, or yourself, manage. Some symptoms of anxiety in those over the age of 65 could be:
-Restlessness
-Constant calling to check in with family members just to talk to someone
-Feeling weak or tired
-Sitting or sleeping all day
-Not wanting to leave the house alone
-Experiencing GI problems
-Having difficulty controlling worry
-Trembling, sweating, or difficulty concentrating
-Difficulty sleeping
It is important to note that health conditions such as cancer, dementia, diabetes, heart disease, and Parkinson’s can cause symptoms of anxiety. Make it a priority to first have a thorough physical examination to rule out any physical conditions.
If you think your senior may be dealing with anxiety, here are 3 strategies to help them better manage it:
Focus On A Good Diet
Time and time again we have learned from research that your stomach is connected to your brain. What you eat can directly effect your emotions, how you handle stress, mental clarity, and more. It’s important to:
Limit or avoid alcohol and caffeine
Stay Hydrated
Maintain a well balanced diet- Drastic swings in blood pressure can definitely worsen anxiety. Make sure you are eating a variety of colors of fruit and vegetables, focusing on whole grains and complex carbohydrates, skipping the simple carbs and sugars, and getting your protein in.
Here are some great food ideas to incorporate into snacks or meals:
-Almonds
-Apples
-Avocado
-Cashews
-Eggs
-Kefir
-Whole Grain Bread
-Brown Rice
-Fish
-Dark Leafy Greens
Exercise
Physical activity can counter anxiety. Just 5 minutes of aerobic exercise will improve mood, provide more positive outlook on life, relieve tension, and result in better sleep. Getting out of the house and moving decrease the likelihood of anxiety by 25%!
Try these things:
-Going on 10 minute walks around the neighborhood
-Parking farther away from the grocery store and walking around the grocery store
-Try yoga in the park
-Try Tai Chi
-Go to group activities
-Walk on the treadmill
Get Therapy
Therapy would be a great option for someone over the age of 65 struggling with anxiety. Most cases will respond very well to a combination of counseling, lifestyle changes, and possibly medication. Meeting with a professional can provide guidance for their thoughts an emotions. It can help them navigate changes in their lives as they age.